Review: The Favourite (2018)

Yorgos Lanthimos's film, The Favourite, is a quirky and engaging ride through the opulent and cutthroat world of early 18th century England. This period piece deviates from the usual serious tone of historical dramas and instead offers a darkly comedic, somewhat surreal look into the royal court’s intrigues. If you’re a fan of films that mix humor, history, and a bit of the bizarre, this one should be right up your alley.

Plot Summary

Set during the reign of Queen Anne, The Favourite centers around the rivalry between two cousins vying to be the Queen's confidante and right hand. As Queen Anne’s health and mental state fluctuate, her close friend Sarah Churchill, Duchess of Marlborough, effectively governs the country through her influence over the Queen. Enter Abigail Hill, a new servant who quickly rises through the ranks and becomes a formidable rival to Sarah. The film explores the shifting dynamics and power plays between these three fascinating women against the backdrop of war and political maneuvering.

Performances

The performances in The Favourite are nothing short of exceptional. Olivia Colman shines as Queen Anne, delivering a portrayal that is both tragic and hilarious. She masterfully captures the queen's vulnerability and volatility, making her a sympathetic yet unpredictable character. Emma Stone, as Abigail, brings charm and cunning to her role. Her transformation from a down-and-out servant to a manipulative contender is both believable and riveting. Rachel Weisz, playing Sarah, balances authority and desperation with finesse. The chemistry and tension among the three lead actresses create a dynamic that keeps the audience thoroughly engaged.

The supporting cast also deserves mention, with Nicholas Hoult providing a notable performance as the scheming politician Robert Harley. His interactions with the leading ladies add another layer of complexity to the story. Each actor contributes to the film’s unique tone, blending drama with moments of absurd humor.

Direction and Craft

Yorgos Lanthimos brings his distinctive style to The Favourite, crafting a film that is visually striking and narratively bold. Known for his penchant for the unconventional, Lanthimos uses anachronistic elements and a modern sensibility to keep the audience on their toes. The dialogue, though set in a historical context, crackles with wit and contemporary flair.

The film’s visual style is equally strong, with cinematographer Robbie Ryan employing fisheye lenses and wide angles to create a sense of claustrophobia and distortion. This technique mirrors the psychological tension and shifting power dynamics of the plot. The opulent production design and lavish costumes further immerse viewers in the period, while the unconventional score adds to the film's offbeat atmosphere.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, The Favourite is a film worth adding to your collection, especially in Blu-ray format. The Blu-ray release offers excellent picture quality that captures the film's rich visuals and intricate details beautifully. The sound design, with its unique score and crisp dialogue, comes through perfectly in this format.

Additionally, the Blu-ray is packed with special features that provide insights into the making of the film, including interviews with Lanthimos and the cast, as well as behind-the-scenes footage. These extras are a treat for anyone interested in the film’s creative process and add significant value for collectors.

While the movie is relatively common in terms of availability, its unique artistic approach and the strength of its performances make it a standout piece in any collection. It’s a must-own for fans of historical dramas with a twist, and for those who appreciate Lanthimos’s distinctive vision.

Overall, The Favourite offers a refreshing take on historical storytelling, blending humor and drama in a way that feels both fresh and engaging. Its standout performances and unique direction make it a film that not only entertains but also leaves a lasting impression.