This is not really a review of
Elizabeth: The Golden Age, but more or less a few observations and an excuse to share a few photos of the costumes Cate Blanchett wore in this film. Purportedly it is a historical biography, but according to the critics, it's more historical fiction. Though it failed to obtain the viewer acclaim of its predecessor (
Elizabeth, also starring Cate Blanchett) it does have some elements of note.
When Cate Blanchett's star began to rise in the East, it seemed the heir to Queen Meryl's throne had appeared. Streep has unquestionably been one of the standouts of her generation of actresses. He range seems to know no bounds. Similarly, Cate Blanchett has tackled a similar variety of challenges and seems to excel at them all. (Bonus points for having been Bob Dylan.)
The significance of the film may be that it zeroes in on two of history's major turning points, the destruction of Spain's dominance of the high seas and the birth of what would become a 300 year global empire, and the establishment of Protestantism and the ouster of Catholicism.
I can't say the film moved me to my innards, but will note that the cinematography was stunning at times and Cate Blanchett's costumes were fit for a queen.
The film did raise questions for me. Did queens also have to dress so extravagantly? Do they ever get to wear "comfortable clothes"? How many hours a day did Ms. Blanchett have to spend getting ready for each day's shooting?
These were the days when it was still believed the kings and queens were divine, which was at odds with what the Reformers were saying. Elizabeth herself questions the notion.
The conflict between Catholics and Protestants had begun to rage in many parts of Europe. The Huguenot Wars were taking place in France, and the Inquisition had been continuing in Spain. Against this backdrop, many of Elizabeth's advisors wanted her to take action against the Catholics in England. Elizabeth, in her wisdom, sees no advantage in creating more conflict by "forcing" the people to be "politically correct", Anglican and not Catholic. (Sadly this did become the law of the land.) Elizabeth is adamant and takes a stand for freedom of thought and belief. She is opposed to any kind of inquisition-like response to weed out Catholics. "Fear creates fear. I am not ignorant of the dangers, sir. But I will not punish my people for their beliefs. Only for their deeds. I am assured that the people of England love their Queen. My constant endeavor is to earn that love." (Great lines. If only all leaders would do likewise.)
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