Watch The Virgin Queen

The Virgin Queen is a historical drama film released in 1955, directed by Henry Koster, and starring Bette Davis as Queen Elizabeth I of England. The film is set during the Elizabethan era and focuses on the Queen's rise to power and her relationships with those around her. The story begins with the death of Queen Mary I of England and the accession of her half-sister Elizabeth to the throne. Elizabeth's reign is tumultuous, as she must navigate the treacherous waters of court politics and fend off numerous attempts on her life. Throughout the film, we see her develop from a timid and uncertain young woman into a strong and decisive ruler.

Bette Davis delivers a compelling performance as Queen Elizabeth, capturing both her vulnerability and her strength. Davis was known for her ability to portray complex characters, and her portrayal of Elizabeth is no exception. She imbues the character with intelligence, wit, and courage, making Elizabeth a compelling figure to watch.

Richard Todd plays the role of Sir Walter Raleigh, one of Elizabeth's closest advisors and confidants. Todd brings charm and charisma to the role, making Raleigh a likable and endearing character. He and Davis have great chemistry on screen, and their scenes together are some of the most engaging in the film.

Joan Collins plays the role of Beth Throgmorton, a lady-in-waiting at court who catches the eye of both Raleigh and Elizabeth's advisor, the Earl of Leicester. Collins is stunning in the role, bringing both beauty and depth to her character. Her interactions with both Raleigh and Leicester add an additional layer of drama to the film.

The Virgin Queen is an epic film, with grand sets and sumptuous costumes. The attention to detail is impressive, with every aspect of the film carefully crafted to evoke the Elizabethan era. The film also features a sweeping orchestral score by Franz Waxman, adding to the sense of grandeur and drama.

Overall, The Virgin Queen is a fascinating portrait of one of England's most iconic monarchs. While it takes a few liberties with historical accuracy, the film captures the spirit of the Elizabethan era, and Bette Davis's performance as Queen Elizabeth is a standout. Fans of historical dramas or classic Hollywood films will appreciate this cinematic gem.

The Virgin Queen is a 1955 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.