Elizabeth - The Golden Age Details

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[Highly rated reviewer]

Majestic sequel

The first Elizabeth film (well, not the 'first' but the one of which this is a sequel to) came out in 1998, and it focused on the early life of Elizabeth I, and her rise to power. The encompassing mood of the film was the struggle against fate, and the reluctance to be thrust into power. The film was nominated for many awards, scooping a few Baftas (for lead Cate Blanchett and support Geoffrey Rush amongst other technical awards) and one Oscar (for makeup), it was certainly recieved well by critics and audiences alike. It has taken a while to get a second film made, and that is probably for the better as the story now skips ahead in as many years as life itself has for those involved. The period of History, and Elizabeth's reign, is now the era of the most turmoil for the Queen. Spain's Catholic crusade is at a peak, with conflict between them and the Protestant England about to reach boiling point (and inevitable war). Another threat to the throne comes from within, with conspirators plotting to remove Elizabeth and placing Mary Stuart (Queen of Scots - played by Samantha Morton) on the throne. The feeling and mood this time is of struggle to hold onto identity whilst everything around you conspires to destroy you. Returning to the film are Blanchet, Rush, and the director Shekhar Kapur.

The film is lavishly costumed and lensed, with the story focusing on the political machinations going on around the Queen. A new face in the mix, and a welcome one, is Clive Owen as Walter Raleigh - played with rogueish charm as the only person (aside from Rush) who will be totally honest to the Queen. A few liberties are taken with regards to historical context and accuracy, with some sub stories taking place earlier in history than they should, but this doesn't affect the film's power and (forgive the pun) majesty.

Great cast, and a tight script which focuses on the Virgin Queen during the greatest turmoil in her reign. Blanchett effortlessly conveys the fear and worry, and desperate longing for a normal life that the script asks for. Fabulous, and sumptuous. I anticipate some more nominations and wins in the next awards season.

poor

one of the most interesting periods in history, and nothing happens in the film... it builds up tediously to a genuine fizzer ending.