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Bette Davis plays Queen Elizabeth the first, in love with Errol Flynn’s Earl of Essex, in this period technicolor drama from director Michael Curtiz (Casablanca, The Adventures of Robin Hood). Both stars conjure the necessary pathos of their characters’ doomed relationship. His love is tainted by his thirst for power, while hers is hindered by her royal standing and social responsibilities. The film’s finale allows the two actors (who hated each other in real life) to showcase their A-game. At one point, Elizabeth and Essex reveal their love for each other while simultaneously engaging in a power struggle. It’s a dynamic display of love vs duty that ends not only their relationship, but one of their lives. The film contains beautiful technicolor cinematography and a romantic score by Erich Wolfgang Korngold (Oscar nominations were given in both departments). A must-see for Davis and Flynn fans. The supporting cast includes Flynn regualrs Alan Hale and Olivia de Havilland, as well as Donald Crisp and Vincent Price.

Oscar Nominations: Best Art Direction, Best Sound, Best Score, Best Special Effects, Best Cinematography