Gramercy Pictures, Rated R
Directed by Shekhar Kapur
Written by Michael Hirst

The biggest reason to see this movie: Cate Blanchett. Blanchett is a revelation as Queen Elizabeth and is who I hope will win Best Actress at the Oscars this year.
Elizabeth is, of course, the story of Elizabeth I's ascension to the throne and the struggles and trials she went through early on, some political, some romantic. Elizabeth is considered a heretic for not being part of the Catholic faith and is also disdained for being a woman. She was not the first choice for the throne. She survives many assassination attempts throughout the film and is surrounded on all sides by enemies. She is criticized for ruling "from the heart instead of the mind." But soon she transforms into one of England's greatest rulers.
Blanchett, again, has one of the best performances of 1998. Geoffrey Rush does a terrific job (better than his Oscar nominated performance in Shakespeare in Love). Attenborough and a few others aren't quite as praiseworthy. The movie suffers from a few bad plot choices here and there, such as the annoying Frenchman she is promised to marry. This subplot is the biggest flaw of the film because the character seems to belong in another movie, not in a dark drama like this. He may be meant to be humorous but he is only excruciating. The ending reminded me a little too much of The Godfather as well. There is plenty to like here though, besides the performances. Fantastic cinematography, art direction and costumes and the story is intriguing from start to finish. Not quite Best Picture material but a great movie nonetheless. *** 1/2

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