In England, 1554, Queen Mary (Kathy Burke) dies and young Elizabeth (Cate Blanchett), her youngest half-sister is proclaimed Queen. Elizabeth must address grave problems that face England, including Bankruptcy, French aggression and the political correctness of her love life.

While learning the ways of the monarchy, Elizabeth must walk a fine political line and use an appropriate amount of ferocity to establish herself firmly in the throne. In the end, Elizabeth emerges as the legendary Virgin Queen. Formidable. Untouchable. Unbeatable.