History with a twist.

Rating: Null/10 (4 July 1999)

If you are a student of history and medieval England you'll cringe in discomfort at the liberties taken in portraying the times of Elizabeth I. The only good thing to be said about this film is the eye-catching gaudy period dress which itself is suspect as being a touch too elaborate. The strong anti-Catholic portrayals of Elizabeth's enemies may be a bit disturbing to present Catholic sensitivities but if understood from a protestant's propagandist viewpoint it passes as another skewed view of history. Mary: Queen of Scots brief role leaves one wondering if this is the Mary of history or just who is this woman portrayed in this movie supposed to be? Period movies could be made interesting and even award winners if the responsible persons took the time to delve into the books and give the public a balanced but colorful portrayal of those past ages allowing for some freedom of artistic expression to enhance the times and characters.