Review of The Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex (1939) by Jesse L — 23 Jun 2004

(VHS) (First Viewing, 5th Curtiz film).

A pretty but rather dull film elevated by Bette Davis' formidable presence and Errol Flynn's raffish charm. Based on a play by Sherwood Anderson, [b]The Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex[/b] (also known as [b]Elizabeth the Queen[/b], which appears in the film's credits) asks for the Virgin Queen and her young lover to talk, talk, and talk some more, one moment vowing to hate each other for eternity, the next tenderly exchanging kisses. After a while their relationship becomes rather exasperating, which unfortunately continues as the film lumbers well past its welcome.

Apparently Davis disliked working with Flynn, which may account for the uneasy undertones felt in many of their scenes together. But this certainly was an interesting career move on Davis' part- she is made to look much older than her 31 years, though the role does allow her to chew the scenery and dominate every scene she's in. I was rather confused by her constant mannerisms, which I'd guess was her attempt to humanize the lofty historical figure, but they end up being more distracting than anything.

Much effort is made to show the internal conflict Elizabeth feels in being both a queen and a lover, though it ends up making her seem more wishy-washy than anything else. It would take another five decades for an actress to effectively portray Elizabeth's emotional plight, giving the amazing Cate Blanchett her best role to date in 1998's [b]Elizabeth[/b].

To it's credit, the film's colors are delicious, as even the poor print couldn't hide their vividness. Though it's too often stage-bound, the sets and ornate costumes are top-notch. And one can't forget Erich Wolfgang Korngold's excellent score, easily one of his best, in my opinion.

When it comes down to it, [b]The Private Lives of Elizabeth of Essex[/b] is never dull (besides the last few scenes where the film's energy evaporates), but certainly not the best effort from anybody involved.