For her first film, Josie Rourke is doing strong. A complex subject (the rivalries between Marie Stuart and Elisabeth 1st to the throne of England). A sharp cast ( Saoirse Ronan - discovered last year in Lady Bird - , Margot Robbie - which we no longer present - , David Tennant - Doctor Who ...). Sumptuous costumes and make-up (which earned him two Oscar nominations ). And a staging that combines period film and disruptive choices that delight us.
The pitch
Two women legitimately think of themselves as Queen of England , and are fighting for the place. One, Marie Stuart , left the country a long time ago because of her Catholic religion. She returns there in order to take the place which is due to her. The other, Elisabeth 1st , his cousin , has reigned for two years. The tension rises during the film between these two women as intransigent in their wills as beautiful in their revolt, with Saoirse Ronan in a leading role of rare power .
A story of women still as contemporary
Although more current than it seems at first, Mary Stuart, Queen of E Pod is a catalyst in the film world, still ruled by men despite the scandal #meetoo. This is the angle chosen by director Josie Rourke . “ You've not heard of it this way before ” , as she confided to the American digital magazine The Ringer.
Towards the end of the film, Elisabeth 1st confides in her cousin: “ I am more a man than a woman now. It was the throne that made me this way. ” Should we recall it? Elizabeth 1st, Marie Stuart's great rival, was known for her virginity and her absolute refusal to marry . This will be the key to his victory. A great lesson in feminism to ponder….
A film without taboos
With total freedom of tone , the director shows the little story , the one we don't know and which delights our nosy inclinations. Sex scenes, the omnipresence of alcohol , games of power and seduction , homosexuality , all this is approached without taboos and allows to identify, against all expectations, with Marie.
A little rock in the middle of the 16th century
The tone is placed in the opening minutes of the film, thanks to Saoirse Ronan jewelry Queen of E terminal. On one side of her head, a classic earring. On the other, five small silver rings , as seen on the catwalks . An asymmetry that makes her even more attractive , if that was possible. She contributes, with Margot Robbie , to make a historical film ultra-sexy .
Verdict
We love this film for its sumptuous images , its great actresses , its quirky tone , and the historical information gleaned which allows to boost its royal culture after The Favorite , awarded at the Oscars. So ? We rush for two hours of pure happiness.
Mary Stuart, Queen of E pod, in theaters February 27, 2019.
Also discover La Favorite, a masterpiece on the last of the Stuarts .
