Hollywood stars unrecognisable in 'masterpiece' Scottish period drama
Margot Robbie and Saoirse Ronan starred in the 2018 film Mary Queen of Scots
This sweeping period drama has captivated audiences with its extraordinary impact on devotees of the genre, who continue to extol the "incredibly strong" performances delivered by its Hollywood stars.
Unrecognisable in her transformation, Margot Robbie embodies Queen Elizabeth I in 'Mary Queen of Scots', the 2018 opulent historical spectacle that enthusiasts simply cannot praise enough. Sharing the screen as Mary, Queen Elizabeth's ill-fated cousin, is Saoirse Ronan whose performance as the contentious historical monarch was nothing short of "shone through".
Adapted from the 2004 biographical work 'Queen of Scots: The True Life of Mary Stuart' and interweaving fiction amid the facts, the film revisits the tumultuous bond between the two regal figures. Upon her return to Scotland from France to assert her legitimate claim to the throne as a Roman Catholic, Mary positions herself as a formidable adversary to the Protestant Queen of England, who strives to keep her in check.
What truly resonated with viewers was the compelling depiction of these iconic women of history. Echoing the sentiments of film aficionados, one Rotten Tomatoes review says: "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."
They added: "I love how both queens' visceral qualities are displayed and that 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. The writing, makeup, music, directing and acting are all solid. I was captivated from start to finish, and I shall watch it again, for sure!", reports the Express.
Mary Queen of Scots is renowned for being held captive for over 18 years before her execution after being convicted of treason, with claims she conspired to assassinate Elizabeth I, her cousin and the reigning Queen of England. Elizabeth's ultimate act of retaliation culminated in Mary's beheading at Fotheringhay Castle.
The cinematic portrayal of this historical episode has enthusiasts mesmerised. A critique reflects: "Soairse is Fantastic! Love Margo but really think that Soirse was the one who shone through. really cool to see this story play out! love the history and he performances really brought the magnitude to the front of what took place! Well done!".
While the narrative substance of the film captivates many, critics among the historically knowledgeable have pointed out discrepancies. They suggest the correspondences exchanged may have been the sole means of dialogue between Mary and Elizabeth, contending the two never actually encountered each other.
A review said: "I enjoyed this one and the story it told about the battle among the Scots for the throne and alliance with England, especially between Mary & her brother & her cousin Elizabeth on the throne. Great cast helped deliver the story along with the time period and locations, even if not historically correct."
Conversely, some aficionados of historical dramas have hailed the film as a work of art. A critic 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."
The already impressive lineup includes Jack Lowden as Lord Darnley and Joe Alwyn in the role of Robert Dudley. The film also stars David Tennant from Doctor Who and Australian actor Guy Pearce, but it's Saoirse Ronan's portrayal that has been garnering rave reviews.
A viewer said: "Soairse is fantastic! Love Margo, but really think that Soirse was the one who shone through. really cool to see this story play out! love the history, and her performances really brought the magnitude to the front of what took place! Well done!".
For those eager to immerse themselves in the Tudor saga reimagined by a star-studded ensemble, Mary Queen of Scots is now available for rental on Amazon Prime.
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