Cate Blanchett has NOTHING on Helen Mirren!

This is a far better production of Elizabeth than Cate Blanchett could give on even her best of days. Helen Mirren was born to play this role! As a history buff, Elizabethan to be specific, you could not have asked for a better Elizabeth. Helen Mirren paints a portrait of who the real Elizabeth must have been, how she must have felt and acted, and delivers speeches with the same passion that graced England all those years ago. Mirren is supported by an incredible cast that includes Jeremy Irons in a production that is both compelling and heart wrenching. Your copy of this HBO presentation will be worth every penny.

Simply wonderful

I got to see this mini-series a while ago and was blown away. I expect a lot from Helen Mirren and Jeremy Irons, but this was more than I expected.

So many shows and films look at young Elizabeth, but very few look at Gloriana. This is visually stunning, the costumes are perfect and the acting is Oscar worthy.

There is nothing negative I can think of! If you are a history buff or enjoy historical pieces, please do yourself a favor and see this!

Excellent period presentation.

Excellent story, directing and acting. Both Mirren and Blanchett equally excelled in their respective rolls as Elizabeth, albeit with differently told stories and directors. But neither rises to the level of Glenda Jackson's version and acting ability in the 1970's BBC series.
Glenda clearly set the standard for the role.

This DVD helps to understand the succession of Elizabeth relationships

I have all Queen Elizabeth I DVD's starring Cate & Helen and love them all. Cate I prefer as young Elizabeth & Helen in Elizabeth's later reign. In this DVD Jeremy Irons appeared to me to be struggling playing this role: a sharp contrast to the actor who played her French suitor--now he had intensity. I am normally a big fan of Jeremy Irons especially when he plays sex addicted roles. But, in this DVD I found myself watching him act rather than enjoy him playing his role. And, in this DVD Helen appeared less attractive--somewhat tired to me for the most part. I am glad I own it because of having the other DVD's starring both actresses and it helps to understand the succession of relationships Elizabeth had. For that reason I recommend this DVD and her French suitor ladies--in this DVD --is believable and very easy on the eyes!!!

Well worth viewing

Well acted. Locations not very "Elizabethan"We have not seen many HBO movies, but would look for more