Movie Review: The Favourite

The Favourite is the latest movie offering from quirky director Yorgos Lanthimos, and perhaps the most accessible. Those who can handle quirk will find this film a splendidly delicious romp. Given the number of awards the movie is up for, it would seem that quirk is in.

Thanks to Fox Searchlight

The Favourite is set in 18th century England where we find Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) suffering from a very bad case of gout. It’s hardly any wonder she is thus afflicted given the extreme life of decadence we witness. Daily life includes sumptuous decor, all manner of foods, duck racing, pigeon shooting and a lot of rabbits.

With the Queen behaving like a petulant teenager, her friend and confidante Lady Sarah Churchill, Duchess of Marlborough (Rachel Weisz) quickly steps beyond the role of adviser, to take hold of the power on offer.

All is going swimmingly until Lady Sarah’s cousin Abigail (Emma Stone) arrives. Abigail soon catches the attention of the Queen. As the two women fight for pole position we are privy to schemes, betrayals, and a myriad of secret passageways.

Thanks to Yorgos

For the preview we were treated to the company of WAAPA costume students.

©The Ponder Room

©The Ponder Room

As they made their way down the aisle I pondered …

1. All three actresses put in excellent performances. I was pleased to see they are all up for awards (see below). Nicholas Holt is also excellent as the scheming Harley.
2. From the outset I was reminded of the recent BBC series Taboo … a female Taboo perhaps?
3. Those interested in fashion or interior design will receive added bonuses. It was hard not to be distracted by the abundant designs.
4. I’d love to get a copy of the script as so many of the biting comments were lost because I was still laughing from an earlier comment.
5. Those anticipating a gentile period piece will be surprised. This iteration of the times is rude, crude, naughty and excessive. Not one for your grandmother.

For more information and session times go to Luna Cinema

NOMINATED FOR 5 GOLDEN GLOBES
Best Motion Picture; Best Actress Olivia Colman; Best Supporting Actress, Emma Stone; Best Supporting Actress, Rachel Weisz; Best Screenplay, Motion Picture

WINNER:  Venice Film Festival 2018: Best Actress (Olivia Colman) and the Grand Jury Prize.