'The Favourite' is a British film directed by Yorgos Lanthimos that has been highly acclaimed by critics and audiences alike. Starring Olivia Colman, Rachel Weisz, and Emma Stone, the film follows the story of Queen Anne and her two courtiers as they battle for the Queen's attention and favor. With its unique blend of comedy, drama, and historical fiction, 'The Favourite' has become one of the most talked-about movies of the year. This review will take a closer look at 'The Favourite' and explore why it's been such a success. We'll look at the performances of the cast, the director's unique vision, and the film's themes and messages.
By examining all these aspects, we'll gain an understanding of why 'The Favourite' stands out from other British films released this year.'The Favourite' is a critically acclaimed British period drama film directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and written by Deborah Davis and Tony McNamara. The movie stars Olivia Colman, Rachel Weisz, and Emma Stone as Queen Anne, Sarah Churchill, and Abigail Masham respectively. Set in 18th-century England, the film follows the story of two female courtiers, Sarah Churchill and Abigail Masham, who are both vying for the affection and attention of Queen Anne. The movie has been praised for its comedic elements, stunning visuals, and its portrayal of complicated female characters.
The Favourite follows Queen Anne's struggle to maintain power while dealing with an array of health issues. She is persuaded to appoint Abigail as her new Lady of the Bedchamber, after Abigail presents her with a gift of a rabbit. Abigail's presence at court causes tension between her and Sarah Churchill, as they both try to win the favor of the Queen. The movie also explores themes of power dynamics, loyalty, and manipulation.
The Favourite features an excellent cast of British actors including Olivia Colman as Queen Anne, Rachel Weisz as Sarah Churchill, Emma Stone as Abigail Masham, Nicholas Hoult as Robert Harley, Joe Alwyn as Samuel Masham, and Mark Gatiss as Lord of the Bedchamber. The production was filmed at locations in England and Ireland, including Hatfield House in Hertfordshire and Longleat House in Wiltshire. The movie was praised for its visuals and performances, particularly Colman's performance as Queen Anne which won her numerous awards including an Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role. The Favourite was also nominated for 10 Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay.
It won in four categories - Best Actress (Colman), Best Supporting Actress (Weisz), Best Production Design, and Best Costume Design. The Favourite stands out from other films in its genre due to its bold mix of comedy, drama, and tragedy. It also offers a unique insight into the complicated nature of female relationships during this period in history. Despite receiving numerous awards and praise from critics, the movie has also received some criticism for its portrayal of Queen Anne as a 'bumbling fool' rather than an enlightened leader.
Production History
'The Favourite' was directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, and written by Deborah Davis and Tony McNamara.It stars Olivia Colman, Rachel Weisz, Emma Stone, Nicholas Hoult, Joe Alwyn, and Mark Gatiss. The budget for the film was $15 million, making it one of the most expensive British films of all time. Filming took place mainly in Hatfield House, Hertfordshire and at Hampton Court Palace. The movie was released in the United Kingdom on January 1st, 2019, and subsequently released in the United States on November 23rd, 2018.
Reception and Awards
The Favourite has been met with critical acclaim since its release in 2018. Critics have praised the film for its comedic elements, stunning visuals, and its portrayal of complicated female characters.The movie has won numerous awards and accolades, including the Academy Award for Best Actress and the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy. Additionally, it was nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and two BAFTA Awards. The movie has also been met with some criticism. Some have argued that the film fetishizes Queen Anne's disability, while others have criticized it for being too comical and lighthearted.
Despite these criticisms, The Favourite has been widely praised as one of the best British films of recent years.
Main Characters
Queen Anne - Queen Anne is the main character of 'The Favourite'. She is an elderly queen with a great deal of power and influence, but is also a fragile and physically weak figure. Her vulnerability allows her two courtiers to compete for her affections and gain her favor. Throughout the movie, Queen Anne is portrayed as a complex character, who is both easily manipulated and yet fiercely independent.She is ultimately determined to make her own decisions and follow her own path.
Abigail Masham
- Abigail Masham is one of the two female courtiers vying for Queen Anne's favor. She is a former servant who has risen to a higher social class due to her cunning and ambition. Abigail is determined to gain power and influence, and will stop at nothing to achieve her goals. She often resorts to manipulation and deceit in order to get what she wants.Sarah Churchill
- Sarah Churchill is the other female courtier who competes with Abigail for Queen Anne's favor.She is a no-nonsense character who is determined to protect the Queen's interests above all else. Sarah often clashes with Abigail as they compete for Queen Anne's attention, but in the end, Sarah remains loyal to the Queen no matter what.
Robert Harley
- Robert Harley is Queen Anne's adviser. He tries to keep the peace between Abigail and Sarah, as well as act as a moral compass for the Queen. He often speaks out against Abigail's deceitful tactics and stands up for Sarah when she is wronged.Despite his loyalty, Robert cannot control the Queen's decisions or sway her opinion.'The Favourite' is a British period drama film that stands out from the rest. It follows the story of Queen Anne and her two female courtiers vying for her affection and attention, and it is praised for its comedic elements, stunning visuals, and its portrayal of complicated female characters. The film's production history was also filled with unique twists and turns, and it has been met with critical acclaim and awards success. Viewers should consider watching 'The Favourite' to experience this captivating story for themselves.
