The cinematography is clearly partial to the Tudor dynasty. Almost every representative of the Tudor dynasty has been 'resurrected' in one historical picture or another. Not surprisingly, special attention was and is paid to King Henry, who changed six wives during his life, and his daughters - Bloody Mary and Elizabeth. All this trio is just begging for the most luxurious screen adaptation, but if the deeds of Henry and Bloody Mary attract with their cruel perversity, Elizabeth beckons with nobility, rebellious nobility.
This movie tells the story of Elizabeth's development as queen of a divided country. Probably this role would seem quite easy, if not full of heavy impressions childhood life of Betsy (youthful nickname of the queen). Up to her could not help but reach the news of her father's life. Elizabeth was only two years old when her mother Anne Boleyn was executed on unfounded charges, but her father's subsequent marriages ended in tragedy almost before her eyes. The princess was particularly struck and horrified by the death of Henry's fifth wife, the young Kate Howard. The tyrant ruthlessly ordered her head to be cut off because she infuriated him with her cheerfulness and optimism. Thus, by the time she was twenty years old, the future queen had a whole collection of such impressions.
None of the modern actresses would not live in this role better than Cate Blanchett. Only she has such a stunningly expressive face. Only her eyes can sparkle with eternal youth, while remaining wise. Kate didn't play Elizabeth, nor did she live her. I think she simply tried to understand the essence of this woman as much as possible, and let her in. It's simple, but it's something that only true talent can do. In short, the queen of cinema, who embodied the most brilliant ruler of England.
This Elizabeth is not a virgin queen at all, but a true mother of her people. A woman who sacrificed her personal life. Although the veracity of this fact can be argued. It is known that because of the events taking place in her family, Elizabeth from her youth had an aversion to marriage. In particular, submission to men reminded her of death. In all this she confessed to her childhood friend and lover - Robert Dudley.
Here I can not help but notice another strange mistake made by the screenwriters. First, Dudley was not a lord, he was only an earl. Secondly, everyone knew that he had a wife, Amy Robsart. And finally, I don't understand who made him a traitor and when? He and the queen had what might be called a serene affair. Robert was by her side until his death in 1588. That is, the whole love tragedy in the movie 'Elizabeth', most brazenly invented by careless screenwriters. Is the truth harder to film?
Well, what the hell with the truth! Let's throw away these conversations about historical accuracy and turn directly to the movie. How fresh and natural looked lecherous and charming Duke of Anjou, played by Vincent Cassel! Scenes with his participation undoubtedly decorated and diluted this movie. On the other hand, I didn't quite understand why threads about the unsettled sex life of the Duke of Norfolk were woven into the plot? An unattractive and out of place bed scene literally ruined the important final events. In general, the truth of life should be filmed, otherwise it spoils the impression of the whole picture.
For me, this movie is like a zebra. The alternation of dark and light stripes is obvious. I hasten to reassure you, the light ones are naturally more. Excellent acting pleases the eye. Geoffrey Rush is beyond praise. Fanny Ardant is magnificent. And now a little surprise. Who is the monk the Vatican sent to eliminate Elizabeth? Don't you recognize him? Well, it's Bond! James Bond! He's got himself in a bit of a pickle here, too. Our favorite Daniel Craig, but 10 years younger. Who'd have thought it?
I can't help but appreciate the music. The medieval-inspired melodies are amazing. Every note is in step with the story. I want to say the same about the costumes. Bravo to the modest and talented workers, whom we unfortunately never see. What can I say? This beauty of historical movies can redeem a lot, but not everything.