This is a chilling historical thriller about the plots, threats and assassins surrounding the young Queen, but more importantly the love she shares with Robert Dudley (Joseph Fiennes) and the personal relationships with her other advisors and friends, Norfolk (Christopher Eccleston), Francis Walsingham (Gregory Rush) and William Cecil (Richard Attenborough). Eric Cantona and Kathy Burke also make brief appearances as an ambassador and Queen Mary, Elizabeth’s half sister.

Cate Blanchett is breath taking as the sovereign. She really brings Elizabeth to life, not as a queen but as the strong willed, hot blooded, fascinating young woman who gave up her own happiness for her country.

The script is fair, though not out standing, but it is visually, that the film really shines. The queen and her friends, advisors and enemies are played by a bunch of exceptionally talented actors, whose presence simply lights up the screen, the costumes and scenery are stunning and the dramatic period music captures the mood perfectly.

But make no mistake, this is no dull history lesson, it is a vivid, fast paced, somewhat artistic and very memorable portrayal of Elizabeth’s early reign ideal for anyone who likes romance, action, drama or history.

There are, however, powerful scenes of brutal violence throughout, which some viewers may find quite upsetting. Though, personally I enjoyed the whole film from start to finish, particularly the last scene, in which Elizabeth cuts her hair and announces to the court that she is married to England, which is very moving.

A must see.