Edinburgh and Us: Snap Review

Have you ever wanted to find out a little bit about a new film to get an indication of whether you’ll like it or not, and ended up reading the entire story? We have. That is why our snap reviews are designed specifically to help you decide if it’s one to watch without giving everything away.

Perfect performances by Olivia Colman, Rachel Weisz and Emma Stone make this strange and naughty period drama one to watch.

The film now leads the Bafta Film nominations 2019 and has put Director Yorgos Lanthimos - whose previous, and similarly unconventional, films include The Killing of a Sacred Deer and The Lobster - in the running for best director.

It’s set in early 18^th century England and tells the story of Queen Anne (Olivia Colman), and the rivalry between her close friend Lady Sarah (Rachel Weisz) and her newly appointed lady of the chamber, Abigail Hill (Emma Stone).

Queen Anne struggles with physical and mental health issues and feels insecure in her position as England’s ruler, thus relying on Lady Sarah for advice. Colman, who has already scooped ‘Best Actress’ at the Golden Globes for her role, excels in her portrayal of this Queen Anne. The character is overweight and depressed, allowing Lady Sarah to prey on her vulnerabilities. Their close and intimate relationship provides scenes full of sharp-witted conversation.

Lady Sarah takes pity on her impoverished cousin Abigail and offers her a job as a servant at the palace. Sensing an opportunity, Abigail competes with Lady Sarah for a place as the Queen’s preferred companion. The drama is loosely based on the true story of Sarah, Duchess of Marlborough, competing with Abigail for the monarch’s favours.

The screen is dominated by the trio of female stars and the parts of the male leads are intentionally diminished. Sarah’s husband, the Duke of Marlborough (Mark Gatiss), alongside Tory Robert Harley (Nicholas Hoult), represent the political male of the period. The males are dressed to look foolish in flamboyant costumes, faces whitened with make-up and flouncy wigs. They are easily manipulated by the females including Harley’s friend Samuel Masham (Joe Alwyn) who is played along by Abigail after he develops an infatuation for her.

The script, in general, is unlike other period dramas where the characters talk in an impeccable form of English far removed from modern speech. Their dialogue is often offensive and they use swearing and sarcasm to voice their views.

While male dominance is more often portrayed in historical dramas, The Favourite has tipped the balance of power to allow the women control. A quite fitting story line in the modern day where women are challenging inequality and demanding fairness and recognition. With praise for the performances of all three of the lead actresses, Lanthimos’ reluctance to follow the norm in this dark comedy has royally paid off.

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