Movie Breakdown: Mary Queen Of Scots

Pre-Screening Stance:

Mary Queen Of Scots looks like it contains two powerhouse performances from Margot Robbie and Saoirse Ronan, and I really want to check it out.  Also, I just saw The Favourite, so I’m in the mood for Queen-related drama.

Post-Screening Ramble:

The parts of Mary Queen Of Scots that I figured would be great, turned out to be great.  Margot Robbie (Queen Elizabeth I) and Saoirse Ronan (Mary Stuart) each turn in award-worthy performances, the cinematography is beautifully moody and there’s plenty of drama to be had.  Unfortunately, there’s also a story that tries its hardest to frame Queen Elizabeth and Mary’s dealings (not just with each other but also their followers and opposers) with contemporary messaging, and this really doesn’t do the film any favors.  I certainly get it – why not use two noteworthy figures in history to show that, regardless of status, things have never been easy for women?  That’s a great idea, but I can’t say it’s one that Josie Rourke fully pulls off here in her directorial debut.  There are just too many times where the film and the actual story of Elizabeth and Mary should be allowed to soar, but instead there’s a sidebar on this or that and instead of an overall engaging experience, what you get are some interesting tidbits littered among a sizeable helping of sluggish moments.

Despite its issues, I do actually think you should see Mary Queen Of Scots.  Robbie and Ronan are both wonderful in it, and even though the film routinely trips its self up, it’s still a solid affair.

One Last Thought:

When I first saw Margot Robbie in The Wolf Of Wall Street, I wouldn’t have guessed that she’d go on to portray the likes of Tonya Harding, Queen Elizabeth I and Harley Quinn.  Good on her for seeking out diverse roles.