There are a number of things including the history lesson that made me want to watch Mary Queen Of Scots; the story of the troubled relationship between Elizabeth I, Queen of England, and her cousin Mary Stuart. 

Considering that director Josie Rourke’s film is a costume drama, I’d hoped to see lots of sumptuous clothing design, in addition to very well-written dialogue delivered by great actors. The film’s trailer even had me expecting something not too far from as epic as director Shekhar Kapur and Cate Blanchett’s Elizabeth (1998). Unfortunately for me, things didn’t quite transpire that way. 

Starring Margot Robbie, Saoirse Ronan, Joe Alwyn and Guy Pearce, there certainly were a handful of well-designed costumes to enjoy. Yet, it’s the few moments of beautiful visuals – especially outdoor cinematography that proved most arresting. Even more so than the dialogue and general story edit, which I have to admit had me less engaged and interested than I envisioned I’d be.

It’s likely that, in addition to finding the story more dull than anticipated, my interest also started to diminish, in part because of how distressing sitting through the sexism and misogyny proved to be.

Just like my recent review of On The Basis of Sex (2018), another historical drama, it’s the part near the very end that I liked most about Mary Queen Of Scots. Meaning, everything from the moment the two royals finally meet. Actually, even with that said, I still choose the few visually arresting moments over the dialogue and this telling of the Elizabeth I and Mary Stuart story.

Watch Mary Queen Of Scots if you absolutely must. As for myself, I think it’s time I re-watched the great Elizabeth (1998).

Happy Film Loving,

G