Elizabeth R
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Movie Reviews of Elizabeth R
Movie Review: Glenda Jackson IS Elizabeth R in a 5 Star Performance
Summary: 5 Stars
This is most likely the seminal piece of work that thoroughly portrays the life of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth I. Although none of alive knows what Elizabeth sounded like, acted like, or even looked like (other than from paintings that may or may not have been accurate), Glenda Jackson is Queen Elizabeth. Her portrayal of the Monarch in Mary Queen of Scots is also incredible. (It is nearly impossible to distinguish between her in either work because they were shot at about the same time, unless one actually views the work for a while.)
Because the work (as opposed to Mary, Queen of Scots) was filmed for television, the sets are a bit dry. Also, as it is supposed to be, it comes off as a theater piece, i.e., as a play. The costumes are excellent, and the acting just cannot get better.
The "bonus features" are also very interesting. The A&E Biography of Glenda Jackson was excellent. I had not realized that she had become a Member of Parliament in the 1990s, and I believe she still remains an MP. This is why the two-time Oscar winner no longer acts, and screen and stage lovers are the poorer for it.
Movie Review: ABSOLUTE PERFECTION--*BEST* I EVER SEEN
Summary: 5 Stars
I grew up watching this. I loved it. I remember seeing it every one to three years on the PBS-I watched it gladly whenever they offered it. I missed it when they quit showing it. Sad. I must have seen ELIZABETH R at least two dozen times. I LOVED IT AND NEVER GOT TIRED OF IT. You can imagine my joy when I learned it was put out on DVD. So yes, I own the DVD. I must have watched it about 6 times :-)
Point is, you never get tired of it. Glenda Jackson was extremely superb and to forget the fact *it is the most historically accurate ever put out on television*. I love all the specials the DVD has to offer. It will also suprise you throughout her life, death hung over her head--even arrested and put into the tower, her half sister seen Elizabeth as a threat; Catholics vs. Protestants. Elizabeth also, miraculously, survived the pox. Even these days the pox is near fatal even with our medical advances. Amazing lady, and a survivor in the purest sense. No wonder she still is regarded as the most admired of all governmental leaders throughout history.
Movie Review: A stunning drama
Summary: 5 Stars
I had dim memories of enjoying this miniseries, and used my very generous Christmas Amazon gift certificate to buy it. I have been spellbound ever since it arrived. The dialogue is brilliant, subtle but precise in multiple layers. It is amazing to watch Elizabeth calculate, plot and scheme her way through obstacle after obstacle, clearly aware that a queen in her position can rely upon nobody but herself. As the viewer, there are times when I wonder, "How will Elizabeth deal with this?" and I am as astonished as the characters with the deft and nimble way she manipulates everyone around her. What is even more amazing is how some characters are aware of the subterfuge and others are taken in, and how Elizabeth has planned that all along.I don't know if the actual Elizabeth I had the presence of mind that Glenda Jackson gives her. I doubt that any human is really that capable. But it makes for an engrossing drama. And I can't help but note how our current political leaders would wither in the light of such a towering intellect.
Movie Review: More extras than listed
Summary: 5 Stars
There's little I can say that others haven't already stated: this is a brilliantly acted, extremely well-written arc of six plays. Each play could stand on its own, though of course, you'll want to watch them in order. It should be noted, however, that there are a few more extras than are listed here on Amazon or even on the box itself, including a 44-minute documentary on the Queen by A&E, especially useful to those who might want a little historical background, and a conversation with historian Alison Wier which runs for an interesting 21 minutes. This is not the same as the commentary track which I haven't listened to yet, though, from occasionally flipping to it, it seems to be full or information and no silences--amazing for a nine-hour drama. Everything, including the extras, has captions--rather than subtitles--which unfortunately are generated by the TV and not the TV player, but that's a minor quibble for such a great disc. Highly recommended.
Movie Review: Glenda's Glorious Gloriana
Summary: 5 Stars
This magnificent series was first televised on American television via Masterpiece Theater. Glenda Jackson gave the definitive performance as Elizabeth I, Queen of England. Motion pictures on the Elizabethan Age starring Cate Blanchard and Bette Davis were quite remarkable, but did not fully measure up to the excellence of this production.
Among an outstanding and noteworthy supporting cast in "Elizabeth R" was Robert Hardy, who played Robert Dudley, the only man Elizabeth really loved. This Dudley and Elizabeth were two passionate, strong-willed individuals who lived amidst a court of political ambition and intrigue. The chemistry between their characters was and still is fascinating because here truly was a woman torn between two great loves: a man and the people of England whom she faithfully served as well as ruled.
Treat yourself royally by purchasing Elizabeth R today!