Question 1

What real-life tension between Bette Davis and Errol Flynn spilled onto the set?

Accepted Answer

Davis unexpectedly belted Flynn for real during a dress rehearsal when Elizabeth slaps Essex, bringing stars to his eyes. They disliked each other, and Flynn planned to hit back if she did it during filming, but she didn't in the final take.

Question 2

How did Bette Davis physically transform to play Queen Elizabeth I?

Accepted Answer

Davis shaved two inches off her hairline at the forehead and had her eyebrows removed. She later complained they never grew back properly, forcing her to draw them in with an eyebrow pencil ever after.

Question 3

What historical inaccuracy exists about Lady Penelope's relationship to Lord Essex in the film?

Accepted Answer

Olivia De Havilland portrays Lady Penelope as a lady-in-waiting with a schoolgirl crush on Lord Essex, but in reality, Lady Penelope was Lord Essex's sister.

Question 4

What did Bette Davis think of Errol Flynn's performance years after filming?

Accepted Answer

Davis originally wanted Laurence Olivier for Essex, claiming Flynn couldn't speak blank verse well. Years later, while screening the film with Olivia de Havilland, Davis admitted she was wrong and that Flynn gave a fine performance.

Question 5

What major award recognition did 'The Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex' receive?

Accepted Answer

The film was recognized at the Academy Awards in 1940.

The Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex

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