The Favourite is the latest movie offering from quirky director Yorgos Lanthimos, and perhaps the most accessible.
Those who can handle quirk will find this film a splendidly delicious romp, and given the number of awards it’s up for, it would seem that quirk is in.
The action is set in 18th century England where we find Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) suffering from a bad case of gout. It’s hardly any wonder she is thus afflicted, given the extreme life of decadence we witness. Daily life includes heavily gilded decor, an excess of foods, duck racing, pigeon shooting and a lot of rabbits.
With the Queen behaving like a petulant teenager, her friend and confidante Lady Sarah Churchill (Rachel Weisz), quickly steps beyond the role of adviser to take hold of the power on offer.
All is going swimmingly until Lady Sarah’s cousin Abigail (Emma Stone) arrives. Abigail soon catches the attention of the Queen. As the two women fight for pole position, we are privy to schemes, betrayals, and a myriad of secret passageways.
For the preview we were treated to the company of WAAPA costume students.
All three actresses put in excellent performances, and I was pleased to see they are all up for awards (see below). Nicholas Holt was also excellent as the scheming Harley.
From the outset the movie reminded of the recent BBC series Taboo … a female Taboo perhaps? The cutting jibes are delicious.
Those anticipating a gentile period piece will be in for a big surprise. This iteration of the times is rude, crude, naughty and excessive. Not one for your grandmother. Anyone interested in fashion or interior design will have to stop themselves from being sidetracked by the sumptuous designs.
For more information and session times go to Luna Cinema
Watch The Favourite Trailer
NOMINATED FOR 5 GOLDEN GLOBES
Best Motion Picture; Best Actress Olivia Colman; Best Supporting Actress, Emma Stone; Best Supporting Actress, Rachel Weisz; Best Screenplay, Motion Picture
WINNER: Venice Film Festival 2018: Best Actress (Olivia Colman) and the Grand Jury Prize.
