Synopsis: Growing keenly aware of the changing religious and political tides of late 16th century Europe, Queen Elizabeth (Cate Blanchett) finds her rule openly challenged by the Spanish King Philip II (Jordi Molla) -- with his powerful army and sea-dominating armada -- determined to restore England to Catholicism. Preparing to go to war to defend her empire, Elizabeth struggles to balance ancient royal duties with an unexpected vulnerability in her love for Sir Walter Raleigh (Clive Owen). But he remains forbidden for a queen who has sworn body and soul to her country. Unable and unwilling to pursue her love, Elizabeth encourages her favorite lady-in-waiting, Bess, to befriend Raleigh to keep him near. But this strategy forces Elizabeth to observe their growing intimacy. As she charts her course abroad, her trusted advisor, Sir Francis Walsingham (Geoffrey Rush), continues his masterful puppetry of Elizabeth's court at home -- and her campaign to solidify absolute power. Through an intricate spy network, Walsingham uncovers an assassination plot that could topple the throne. But as he unmasks traitors that may include Elizabeth's own cousin Mary Stuart (Samantha Morton), he unknowingly sets England up for destruction.

"Elizabeth: The Golden Age" has some amazing costuming and cinematography, not to mention Cate Blanchett's performance was amazing! However, watching the movie felt like I was watching a really long DVD and whoever had the remote just kept hitting the 'Next Chapter' button, skipping over a LOT of stuff… but still keeping some continuity and pace. For a 2 hour movie, I felt like I'd missed out on so much when it was all over. I really enjoyed most of it, but I still felt unfulfilled… it just wanted that entertaining and it could have been more interesting if the pacing and content didn't feel so choppy. Adding in all that "missing" content would have probably made this into a 4-5 hour movie, which just wouldn't have worked… but still… the movie just felt kind of "empty" for lack of a better word. This was essentially the 'Diet' version of the story and overall, it was still a very good movie, but lacked punch… too much focus on the costuming cinematography, not enough focus on the story and characters. 

All in all, I'd give this movie 3 Spanish Armadas (out of 5). Re-watch value: MEDIUM

So having seen "Elizabeth" I had really high hopes for this movie and I was not disappointed.  It was a good follow up to its predecessor; it had the same great cinematography and excellent costuming.  Of course Cate Blanchett, Geoffrey Rush, and Clive Owen did an outstanding job of portraying their roles.  I thought the movie did have kind of a storytelling style to it, as it seemed to jump from one chapter to another.  Other than the jumping around I thought the movie was very well done and it kept me interested all the way thru.  I was worried in some aspects as it seemed that the director kind of held Blanchett back and didn't know how to take advantage of her tremendous talent. On a side note, I thought this was a great quote from the movie: Queen Elizabeth I: "And I ordered Mary's execution. I murdered God's anointed Queen. And now God's most dutiful son makes Holy War to punish me." 

Overall Rating: 3 Inquisitors (out of 5). Re-Watch Value: High (I will purchase on DVD)

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