The Favourite
Review by Myla Tosatto
The Favourite Review
I was told before seeing the new film, The Favourite, that it was pretty and vulgar. That person was correct. It was both pretty and vulgar. I loved every second of it! Yorgos Lanthimos’s film sweeps you up from the very first scene between Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) and Lady Sarah Marlborough (Rachel Weisz). The viewer is aware that the movie is going to be rocket fast and whip smart (not to mention hilarious).
Queen Anne and Lady Marlborough enjoy a close relationship that started when they were children and grew along with their power and influence. They enjoy intimacy until a beguiling cousin of Lady Marlborough shows up, Abigail Hill (Emma Stone). Lady Marlborough figures out quickly that her cousin has become her rival. Thus begins a power play between the two women for the Queen’s affection and control of the English government between the Whigs and the Tories.
Queen Anne, Lady Marlborough and Abigail are very strong, smart and capable women. But they are also a bit horrible (some more horrible than others). I still rooted for them all and wished them success even when they were being awful. I think this speaks of the actress’s performances and the casting (Dixie Chassay). The women scream, scheme and hurl insults with such craven flourishes that you can’t help but to enjoy it. Brava to the trio of actresses!
The Favourite has officially become my favorite movie of the year so far (no pun intended). It has knocked Paddington 2 to number #2 (again, no pun intended). But unlike Paddington 2*, you shouldn’t bring the children. If you do, they will learn some very interesting words, though. Words that you don’t want coming up during holiday get togethers.
* Really, why haven’t you seen Paddington 2 yet? Just watch it. It’s streaming on many platforms. You will make Movie Myla so happy if you would.