Elizabeth

• Richard Attenborough, Geoffrey Rush and a devious, unscrupulous schemer in Christopher Eccleston as the Duke of Norfolk keep this intrigue of treachery, betrayal and power moving along tautly. Michael Hirst has a definite penchant for writing of the Tudor times and Shekhar Kapur brings the costumes and palaces alive with some creative direction.

• The talent of the director and cast is matched by impeccable technical craftsmanship, featuring magnificent production design by John Myhre, splendid costumes by Alexandra Byrne, and dark cinematography that heightens the constant sense of danger lurking in the corridors of the royal palace. Leading the film, Cate Blanchett, an actress of diaphanous beauty, crafts an extraordinary portrait of Queen Elizabeth, supported by an excellent ensemble.

• An opulently staged and magnificently acted historical drama; Cate Blanchett in particular completely immerses herself in the role and delivers a world-class performance. England of that era is captured in breathtaking imagery, and the castles and costumes are true eye candy.

• Cate Blanchett's performance, evolving from an innocent young girl battered by turbulent waters into the commanding presence of a queen, is magnificent. In the finale, seeing her cloaked in both grief and majesty truly tightens the chest.

• This is indeed the film's greatest asset: it stands out not only for its magnificent costumes, but also for its lavish cast—including several French actors playing French roles—and where Cate Blanchett reveals herself majestically in one of her first major roles. She dominates this male world that excels in rhetorical sparring driven by rich dialogue; you would think you were watching a Shakespeare adaptation.

1 / 5