Fans have labelled the 2018 film a ‘misunderstood masterpiece’ as they praised the ‘beautiful’ performances and were surprised by the makeup and costume transformations
This period drama draws from the true story of two monarchs, both portrayed by Hollywood A-listers.
Adapted from John Guy’s 2004 biography, Queen of Scots: The True Life of Mary Stuart, this film translates the Scottish monarch’s story from page to screen.
With acclaimed Irish actress Saoirse Ronan taking on the role of the late Scottish queen and Margot Robbie cast as her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I, the dramatised account of their relationship unfolds before audiences.
Mary Queen of Scots is the 2018 historical drama that stunned viewers when they witnessed Margot Robbie, celebrated for her striking looks and exceptional performances, appear in costume and makeup that utterly transformed her appearance.
The production employed numerous fictionalised elements to depict the complex relationship between the two monarchs.
Audiences follow Mary’s return to Scotland from France to claim her legitimate throne as a Catholic royal, only to face opposition from England’s Protestant Queen, who covets absolute authority.
Mary Queen of Scots endured more than 18 years of her brief life in captivity and was ultimately convicted of conspiring to assassinate the queen, her own cousin.
Consequently, Elizabeth ordered Mary’s execution by beheading at Fotheringhay Castle, a devastating end which some historians suggest may have been part of an intricate scheme.
While it may not be wholly historically accurate, drawing considerable criticism as a result, the depiction of these formidable historical women resonated deeply with cinema audiences.
One Rotten Tomatoes review notes: “A very powerful look at women in power and women in politics, at a time when women were even more ‘under a rock’ than they are (to a lesser extent) now, with incredibly strong performances from both Ronan and Robbie.
“I love how both queens’ visceral qualities are displayed and how each woman is unabashed, fierce, and real. The parts of the movie that seem to be slower or less immersive than they perhaps should have been are still engrossing because of the lead performances.”
Another viewer said: “I think time will look very favourably upon this misunderstood masterpiece. There is some incredible casting, some stunning acting performances, and as a whole, it is a beautiful feast for the eyes.
“Ronin is spectacular. Spellbinding. Lowden is amazing. A truly stunning film and one which lives with me and deserves so much more praise than it seems to get. Beautiful. I think it’s excellent.”
Supporting the two principal actresses on screen is an ensemble comprising Jack Lowden, Joe Alwyn, David Tennant, and Guy Pearce in secondary parts.
Despite having such an exceptional cast, it was the production and design aspects that earned Mary Queen of Scots Oscar nominations.
One viewer said: “If you like strongly scripted and well-acted period dramas, then this is for you. Ronan and Robbie are excellent and well supported by Martin Compston and Jack Lowden.”
For those wishing to see the dramatic tale of these formidable monarchs brought to life by an A-list ensemble, Mary Queen of Scots is currently available to rent on Amazon Prime, as well as Apple TV.
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