Richly produced drama

Rating: 10/10 (22 July 2003)

Originally written 20 January 1999; account moved
In this offering of the early years of the reign of Elizabeth I the emphases are on early suitors for her hand in marriage and on the struggle between the two factions of the Protestant and Catholic clergy. Although the film was completely a masterpiece of film art, it misses the mark slightly with it's obvious anti-catholic bias and it's habit of ignoring historical fact. Although many films such as this do use a good deal of artistic license, it would be just as interesting - perhaps more so, to portray the events that shaped a future world accurately.
If one remembers the makers have played havoc with history, it surpasses mere entertainment. It is a joy to watch.