"The Queen"
Directed by: Stephen Frears. Starring: Helen Mirren, James Cromwell, Michael Sheen.
In "The Queen", Helen Mirren portrays Queen Elizabeth II. The film is set in 1997 at the time of the death of Diana, former Princess of Wales. The film examines the reactions to her death by the Royal Family, and how that reaction contrasts with the rest of the world and creates a public relations disaster.
At the beginning of the film, before the news of Diana's death, the Queen and much of the Royal Family discuss her as an annoyance. After her death, the family doesn't change their feelings about Diana. Even in her death they view her as an embarrassment to their throne and refuse to comment publicly about it.
The Royal Family is shown as a group who are completely out of touch with the country. They are painted as very isolated and old fashioned. They don’t even think about the ways their reaction, or lack thereof, is hurting them in the public eye.
Prime Minister Tony Blair on the other hand is well aware of the beating the Queen is taking in the press. He tries to help her avoid it, but nothing he says convinces her that she should reach out to her people. It all seems overemotional and unnecessary to her.
Mirren's portrayal, in particular, is complex and quite interesting. She's a strong character who's very set in her ways. At times, her directness and seemingly coldhearted reactions are almost inhuman. However, there are moments where you can't help but sympathize with her situation and her predicament. That’s one of the great things about this film. It feels like you’re getting a fair look at both sides of the story.
With the Prime Minister pushing her one way, her Mother and her family another and all of it playing out in the media, its hard not to pity the person lost in the middle of it. Once the people and the media turn against her, it’s interesting to watch her try to make sense of it all. What’s most fascinating is the realization that she really does think she’s doing what’s best for the country by trying not to make a fuss or being overly sentimental in public.
The country "needs a more modern perspective" utters Prince Charles, Diana's former husband upon meeting with Prime Minister Tony Blair and discussing the Royal Family's decision to have a private funeral. That's what this film is all about - a family who nearly chokes itself on its own old-fashioned ways. In the dark days after Diana’s death it’s up to the most traditional person of them all, the Queen, to unite the country and save the crown.
Story: B+
Acting: A
Visuals: B+
Originality: B
Enjoyability: B+
Overall: B+
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