Royal Failure

Rating: 4/10 (3 May 2009)

Given that the filmmakers have taken liberties with historical facts in this account of the rise to power in England of Elizabeth I, it is surprising how dull the script is. It's also quite muddled, making it a chore to figure out who's doing what to whom. Blanchett is fine in the title role and is ably supported by Rush. Fiennes is underwhelming as the queen's lover. Kapur's amateurish camera work, particularly the overuse of overhead shots, doesn't help matters. Despite his indulgent attempts to call attention to himself, he remains one of only a handful of directors of Best Picture Oscar nominees not to be nominated for Best Director. At least the costumes are colorful.