Elizabeth: The Golden Age

Elizabeth: The Golden Age is another Oscar nominated movie I have recently watched. Cate Blanchett revises her role as Queen Elizabeth I, now middle aged and right smack in the middle of her rule. Cate has been nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role and I can say she really does shine if the same role she was in almost ten years ago. I have always been a big fan of period pieces and I am in awe of Cate’s acting abilities. There are not many actors or actresses who I can say are true stars, but Ms. Blanchett is one of them. There is no other actress I can see playing Queen Elizabeth with such incredible emotion and skill. She is the reason to watch this movie.

There is another such actor who has great chemistry with Cate and that is Clive Owen (very nice in tights!) who plays the handsome Sir Walter Raleigh. I assumed there would be a romance between the Queen and her loyal subject. Rather, their relationship was of a great friendship and abiding love. Elizabeth knows she can not be lovers with Walter because of who she is and the sacrifice she has placed upon herself. She is known as the Virgin Queen for a reason. Her ultimate lover is of England and the people she rules over. Elizabeth is portrayed as a kind but powerful ruler. She has so much responsibility on her shoulders, but does what she can to make sure she is fair and right. When she is angry, watch out because the words that come out of her mouth are scathing, much like the words of God that have come down from the heavens and she is his messenger.

There are scenes of war and torture, because the Spanish are the enemy of England since King Philip is a devout catholic and thinks the Protestant Queen is evil. He thinks he can overpower her and take over England. HA! Elizabeth is one woman you do not mess with. She has major balls and takes on everyone. Why does she need a husband or children to make her feel worthy? Not Elizabeth. She spits in their eyes and will stand alone if she has to in order to overcome and be on top.

This is one beautifully shot and visual movie with wonderful costumes, dialogue and some great fighting scenes. Truly a romantic picture, because a look between a man and woman is also very telling. This comes to mind Between Elizabeth and Walter.

This is one movie I recommend for your viewing pleasure.

Katiebabs