The Private Lives of Elizabeth and EssexThis has to be perceived as one of Bette Davis' lesser efforts, especially when compared to her performance as the same character in the now available DVD release of "The Virgin Queen" which she did when she was closer in age to Queen Elizabeth. Also Davis' costar in "The Virgin Queen", Richard Todd, is more appropriate because his level of skill as an actor surpasses that of Errol Flynn in this disaster. Whereas Flynn portrays the Earl of Essex, Todd portrays Sir Walter Raleigh. Not being very much aware of British history, I presume these are different characters with whom Elizabeth was involved at different times in her love life. In any case, Davis' dialogue in "Virgin" is so sharp and witty that it approaches Shakespeare and Davis' spot on delivery of her lines will have you marveling at her and clinging to every word.