historical film at its best

Rating: 10/10 (2 December 1998)

I don't know enough about sixteenth century English history to know that the film is totally accurate, but can say that the film left me wanting more. Again like so many good films I wish it could have gone longer. It is relativly short only about two hours and covers only the initial years of Elizabeth's reign where she is consolidat- ing power against the will of the Pope and his followers. The characters from the lead, Ms. Blanchett, to Mr. Rush (Walsing- ham), her ruthless advisor, to Mr. Eccleston (Norfolk), her court adversary, to Mr. Fiennes (her lover), to Mr.Cassel (her roy al suitor), to Mr. de la Quadro (the Spani sh ambassador, to Ms. Burke (Mary, her sister) were all excellent playing well written interesting characters. The film sets the Medieval mood well with great cin ematography and costuming but we feel a certain connection to all the characters----good and bad. Could it be that human nature has not changed much in the last four centuries, although I would like to think that we are less ruthless? The movie has love, passion, hate, fear, loyalty, deceit, and laughter. The story although I'm sure embellished, is essential ly true, told in an appealing way, filmed well, and presented by an excellent cast. What more could you possibly ask except perhaps another hour of film. Many thanks to all involved. A strong three and half stars.