Elizabeth I (2017) User Reviews

Adequate, but no depth

[peterri-17298 · 6/10 · 28 May 2019]

Elizabeth I is a fascinating subject; this docu-drama barely touched the tip of the iceberg. Her life just can't be documented in this 3 hour time allotment. If you want to see the best to date drama, watch the 1971 version with Glenda Jackson. It ran over 7 hours, and included so much more of Elizabeth's life.

I really wish we could somehow combine Cate Blanchett with Glenda Jackson's portrayal; Cate as the younger, Glenda as the older, while using the more accurate 1971 script.

BLOODY ROYAL HISTORY

[kirbylee70-599-526179 · 7/10 · 4 January 2019]

If you love watching shows that discuss the royal family of England past and present, in particular the past, then by all means make a point of watching or picking up a copy of ELIZABETH I. It's a documentary film that combines re-enacted moments in the life of the famed queen who ruled England from 1558 until her death in 1603. And unlike most documentaries on the subject the method used here brings the subject to life.

Broken up into three sections the series aired in 2017 but is now available thanks to Acorn Video. The series is narrated by Leeds historian Dan Jones who along with Dr. Suzannah Lipscomb provides the historical details of the monarch's life. Walking through various locations where actual events took place they set the dramas up that are acted out.

I could provide in detail the events covered in her life and the tragedies that befell this queen but that would take away the enjoyment those who like these types of shows would get from watching. Suffice to say that the three sections are broken in the best way possible with the first covering her early life including her involvement (or lack of) with her father Henry VIII and her rise to the crown, the second covering her early years and in particular the battles she had with her cousin Mary Queen of Scots and the third section taking us through her final years and battles before she passed away.

The performances of all involved are much better than one would expect from the standard re-enactment style shows. It was nice to know that rather than employ unknown actors in major roles they chose instead to insert a few recognizable faces. It pays off. The same holds true for using actual locations when available.

The end result is an interesting show to watch and one that I would guess would be binge watched rather than strung out over several nights. It is both entertaining and enlightening. Acorn has done all a service by offering this one on disc. I would suggest that history departments in schools pick up a copy to have on hand. It just might help get a young person interested in history.