Review of The Queen (2006) by Brenden — 01 Aug 2010

A superior biopic of the turbulent period of public opinion regarding the monarchy following the death of Princess Diana, Stephen Frear's masterful drama is compelling viewing. Simply, yet realistically shot, the film comes off more as a documentary then simply a run-of-the-mill historical drama.

The script is cleverly crafted, with instances of wry humor matched with suitably emotional instances that serve to tie together the sprawling nature of the global tragedy while placing the characters of the titular Queen Elizabeth at the center of it all.

Helen Mirren's superb acting carries the film along, with her sympathetic and highly detailed performance presenting the world's most famous monarch in a manner both relativily accurate and relatable to the viewer.

I will admit, this one one of my particular favorite roles of the many that I have seen. Every sequence with the Queen is a pure joy to behold. In particular, one of my favorite scenes occurs during the Queen's driving out to join her husband and grandsons on a hunt, yet the vehicle breaks down.

She is alone, and calls in the break-down to the grounds-keeper in a manner in keeping with the enjoyably stuffy Queen' character. As she awaits the repair, she finally allows hersefl a moments grief for Diana's death and the nasty public-opinion razing of the monarchy that followed.

And yet, we are never allowed to see Mirren's face while she weeps. The Queen must not show weakness, after all. This scene brings a wonderful sense of pathos to the seemingly emotionally invulnerable queen.

This is must see viewing, without a doubt, as to not see it would be to do yourself a disfavor.