The Favourite (2019) Review

Yorgos Lanthimos has a knack for creating films that linger in the mind long after the credits have rolled. With The Favourite, he delivers a period drama that’s both lavish and wickedly funny, a work that feels both historical and refreshingly modern. This 2019 offering is a departure from his more surreal projects, yet it retains his signature knack for blending humor with the darker shades of human nature. Set in the early 18th century, it's a world of opulence, intrigue, and the kind of royal backstabbing that keeps you glued to the screen.

Plot Summary

The Favourite transports us to the court of Queen Anne, a place filled with political maneuvering and personal vendettas. At its heart is the frail Queen Anne, whose closest confidante, Lady Sarah, effectively runs the country in her stead. Enter Abigail, a new servant with ambitions that reach far beyond her station. As Abigail and Sarah vie for the Queen's favor, the power dynamics keep shifting, leading to a series of events that are both enthralling and unpredictable. Lanthimos manages to keep the narrative taut and engaging without giving too much away too soon.

Performances

The performances in The Favourite are nothing short of exceptional. Olivia Colman, as Queen Anne, brings a mix of vulnerability and authority to the role, earning her an Academy Award. Colman's portrayal is both heartbreaking and hilarious, as she navigates the complexities of a monarch with personal and political insecurities. Rachel Weisz and Emma Stone play the rival courtiers, Lady Sarah and Abigail, respectively. Weisz imbues Lady Sarah with a steely determination, while Stone's Abigail is cunning and resourceful. The chemistry between these three leads is electric, each bringing their own flair to the intricate relationships at play.

Direction and Craft

Yorgos Lanthimos has a distinctive style that is very much present in The Favourite. His direction is meticulous, as he uses wide-angle lenses to capture the grandeur and claustrophobia of court life. The film's visual aesthetic is striking, with its elaborate costumes and sumptuous set designs. The use of natural lighting adds an authentic feel to the period setting, enhancing the film's immersive quality. Lanthimos's choice to infuse the narrative with anachronistic dialogue and music lends it a quirky, modern edge that sets it apart from typical period dramas.

The screenplay by Deborah Davis and Tony McNamara is sharp and witty, making the most of Lanthimos's flair for blending absurdity with pathos. The dialogue crackles with humor and bite, and the pacing is adept at maintaining tension throughout. The film's score, composed of classical music, underscores the drama and humor, enhancing the overall atmosphere.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, The Favourite is a splendid addition to any film library. Its combination of exquisite performances, unique style, and engaging story make it a standout piece. In terms of physical media, the Blu-ray edition is the best format to own. It offers superior picture quality that emphasizes the film's rich visual detail, and the sound is crisp and clear, which is essential given the importance of the dialogue and score. As of now, The Favourite is relatively common on the market, making it accessible for most collectors. However, this does not detract from its value as a must-have for fans of Lanthimos's work or period dramas in general.

With a star rating of 4.5 out of 5, The Favourite stands as a reflection to Yorgos Lanthimos's ability to craft films that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. Whether you're drawn to the history, the humor, or the performances, there's something in this film for everyone. So, if you're looking to expand your collection, The Favourite is one that you'll want to add to your shelf sooner rather than later.