Only for fans of the genre

Rating: 5/10 (26 May 2004)

Costume drama about queen Elizabeth, who reigned England for a period of over 40 years. We follow her during her first years in power as she is supposed to marry, but ultimately doesn't, giving her the 'title' The Virgin Queen.
Two stories are in the central. First of all, it's the Queens (a part by Cate Blanchett) lovelife. Three parties desperately want to marry her: the royal families of France and Spain and long time friend and lover Lord Robert (a great Joseph Fiennes, who also starred in (the much better (IMO)) Shakespeare In Love).
Then there's the issue of religion. At the time Elizabeth comes to power England is a catholic country, but Elizabeth is protestant. Both sides 'meet' each other in what apparently became the Anglican church. That's a thing I didn't know yet. You see, you *can* learn things from the movies.
The acting is impecable and it all looks great, but like other costume drama's it just won't stick with me. At the time of the last (great!) scene I was a bit bored ... is it just me?
Strong performances make it a 5/10, but I'm sure fans of the genre (that includes the members of the Academy) will strongly disagree with me.