There is not much that I can add to the praise that has been heaped upon this film by other reviewers. A wonderfully literate script acted to the hilt by real actors. It's a film that, anyone viewing "The Monster that Ate Hollywood" on PBS's Frontline (November 22, 2001) would sadly realize, would never be made today.
I would like to comment regarding Katherine Hepburn's age for the part. In reality, when Henry II was 50 (as is mentioned often in the film), Eleanor of Aquitaine would have been 61, which was exactly how old Katherine Hepburn was when she played the role. She was perfect. It was Peter O'Toole, at 36, who wasn't age appropriate, but then who cares, he was magnificent and together they were perfection.
I would like to comment regarding Katherine Hepburn's age for the part. In reality, when Henry II was 50 (as is mentioned often in the film), Eleanor of Aquitaine would have been 61, which was exactly how old Katherine Hepburn was when she played the role. She was perfect. It was Peter O'Toole, at 36, who wasn't age appropriate, but then who cares, he was magnificent and together they were perfection.