Tales of intrigue, political maneuvering, power and love are woven in a series of intense tableaux steeped in the glorious textures of this amazing era. The austere awe-inspiring vaults of Ely Cathedral and its stark Normal columns fittingly provide much of the background set.
The strength of this film is in the juxtaposition of lengthy emotionally-charged scenes which only the best of acting could support. These were violent times and violence and sex were indeed portrayed but in the most effective fashion of an initial striking visual impact - suspended - leaving the imagination to complete the picture.
Contrasts of light and dark and their symbolism permeated gloriously rich or malevolent scenes. Costumes, scenery, lighting, photography and out-of-focus effects all contributed to capturing this unique period of history. Such magnificent scenes rightly featured a magnificent cast: Cate Blanchett, Clive Owen, Abbie Cornish, Samantha Morton and Jordi Molla. The film was directed by Shekhar Kapur, written by William Nicholson and produced by Working Title Films. The music by A. R. Rahman, was not limited to sounds from that era, but written in a more modern idiom that remained accessible and unobtrusive to reflect and support the emotional energy the scenes inspired.
At the heart of events was the powerful figure of Elizabeth 1, her need for over-riding control and her dedication to her people and her country which contrasted significantly with the turmoil of her womanly inner desires and passions. Her love for Raleigh, their credible relationship - a meeting of powerful and quick-witted people and the undercurrent of strong sexual attraction led to Elizabeth's credible slip from her pedestal and descent into a physical jealous spat with her rival and winner of Raleigh's affections: Bess who eventually bore his child.
There were unforgettable scenes above and below water that brought us inextricably inside the battle with the Spanish Armada so close to English shores. Contrasts of the English and Spanish cultures effectively permeated events. The contrasting personalities of Elizabeth and Mary were also apparent, featuring the volatile humanity of Elizabeth and the calmness and poise of Mary Stuart as she faced her execution. These are but a few effects that fed this feast of magnificently crafted scenes, to make the film one that will be remembered as one of the most spectacular of those dedicated to Elizabeth 1.
