Educational Media Reviews Online

From the opening scene, we’re off and running in this fast-paced Masterpiece Theatre production of the reign of Elizabeth I. As Lord Chancellor Gardiner and Sir Thomas Radcliffe make their way to the teenage Princess Elizabeth’s quarters to take her to the Tower on charges of conspiracy against Queen Mary, she hastily dresses and feigns to be in prayer with her Ladies, Catholic rosary beads and all. The modern Celtic/chant music by Martin Phipps, evident throughout this film, couldn’t be a more perfect choice to accompany Elizabeth’s rapid decision making in this scene, giving us a taste of her strength and political savvy to come. While there are many film versions of Elizabeth Tudor’s story and place in history, this production excels in portraying her development as a woman as well as ruler. It focuses on her personal relationships, primarily with Robert Dudley and then later on with his step-son Robert Devereux, her political relationships with her advisors, and above all, her deep sense of duty and love for her country and her people.

Elizabeth I: The Virgin Queen has all the extraordinarily fine production values we count on from Masterpiece Theatre programs. The writing, costumes, sets, music, and acting are first-rate. Covering almost her entire lifespan is not an easy feat to accomplish in a film just short of 4 hours, and while this production succeeds, purists may find fault as some important events (her dealings with Mary, Queen of Scots and her near marriage to the French Duke of Anjou, for example) feel rushed and unrewarding. The strength of the program, as mentioned earlier, is in the development of Elizabeth as a triumphant monarch.

Anne-Marie Duff brings Elizabeth to life, exhibiting her passions, and portraying the aging process with earthiness and grace that surely the real Elizabeth must have possessed. All facets of Elizabeth are here—nurturer, ruler, woman, friend, as well as political and military strategist, scholar, and above all Queen. Duff stands out in her portrayal of Elizabeth and joins the ranks of Helen Mirren (HBO production Elizabeth I, 2005) and Glenda Jackson (TV mini-series, Elizabeth R, 1971) as actresses able to capture the essence of Elizabeth I. As Elizabeth’s best friend, confidante, and probable lover, Tom Hardy shines as the earring-wearing Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester. Playing his step-son, Robert Devereux (Earl of Essex), Hans Matheson is brilliant in his interpretation of a weak, somewhat twisted opportunist. One of the most memorable, almost shocking scenes occurs when a distraught Essex bursts in on the aged Elizabeth as she sits soaking her feet, a haggard, half-dressed, nearly bald old woman. He grovels at her side, professing his love and asking forgiveness—the contrast couldn’t be more striking. Essex symbolizes her subjects, seeking approval from this tiny crone who, even without all the Elizabethan pageantry and costume, commands respect and loyalty. It’s also wonderful to see some of the minor roles usually overlooked in film portrayals of Elizabeth, brought to the forefront. These include Leicester’s first wife, Amy, who purportedly committed suicide; and his second wife, (mother of Devereux) and Elizabeth’s cousin Lettice Knowles.

The program captures the vitality and energy of her youth, and her maturation and growth into leadership responsibilities. Her masterful conquering of the Spanish Armada brings a wonderful climax to the film, showcasing Gloriana at its highest point. Nature takes its course and as Elizabeth and her advisors grow old, the next generation begins jockeying for positions of power.

The Tudor dynasty is one of history’s most captivating families. This strong, devoted Tudor Queen was highly educated in a time when most women were not, and she used it together with her keen instincts to become a religious, military and political strategist that brought England one of its most prosperous historical periods. Elizabeth I: The Virgin Queen is highly recommended for library collections supporting college coursework in British history as well as women’s studies. The length makes it difficult for classroom showings, however, the DVD is divided into “chapters” for selected viewing. It also has links to the Masterpiece Theatre web site where further information about the Tudors, this production, and a viewer’s forum are available.