I liked it but it is not historically accurate

Rating: 7/10 (1 June 2005)

The writer took a lot of liberties when he wrote the screenplay for this movie. I liked it because generally it gave the overall feeling about how difficult Elizabeth I's reign was. Cate Blanchett was brilliant in this role - but the writer did leave some things unclear with no background touched upon. I could write 2 pages to right the wrongs stated as history but probably the best way to understand Elizabeth's reign is to read a really good book by Jane Dunn called "Elizabeth and Mary, Rivals. Cousins, Queens." Jane Dunn has done a brilliant job of research through English State Papers (290 volumes worth) and other books historically correct. The writer made the movie work but really shouldn't have stated a time frame because he hardly ever stayed in it. This movie brought Elizabeth I to light for many people who now think they know about her, but really they don't. I hope no one quotes things that happened in this film as accurate because they will be laughed at by people who know the real story. Still all in all I enjoyed it for what it was.