The Favourite (2018), directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, is a darkly comedic historical drama set in early 18th-century England. The story revolves around the fierce rivalry between two cousins, Sarah Churchill (Rachel Weisz) and Abigail Masham (Emma Stone), as they compete for the favor of the ailing and emotionally unstable Queen Anne (Olivia Colman). Their manipulation and cunning escalate the tension, leading to a brutal power struggle filled with deceit, wit, and betrayal.
The Favourite - Release Date, Trailer, Songs, Cast
Movie: | The Favourite |
Genre: | Drama, Comedy, History |
Language: | English |
Director: | Yorgos Lanthimos |
Main Cast: | Olivia Colman, Emma Stone, Rachel Weisz, Nicholas Hoult |
Release Date: | November 23, 2018 (USA) |
Banner: | Element Pictures, Scarlet Films, Film4 Productions |
Music: | N/A (Instrumental score by Johnnie Burn) |
Budget: | $15 million |
Runtime: | 119 minutes |
One of the film’s greatest strengths is its sharp screenplay, which seamlessly blends biting humor with complex character interactions. Lanthimos’s distinct direction lends a surreal, almost absurdist quality to the historical backdrop, making the world feel both foreign and strangely familiar. The performances are outstanding, with Olivia Colman delivering a powerhouse portrayal of Queen Anne, deftly balancing fragility and volatility. Weisz and Stone shine as the scheming women, each driven by their own ambitions.
The film’s visual style, featuring opulent costumes, intricate production design, and the striking use of wide-angle lenses, heightens its eccentric tone. The Favourite is a captivating exploration of power, loyalty, and the lengths people will go to in a ruthless environment. It is witty, dark, and completely engrossing.
The Favourite Review
The Favourite (2018), directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, is a darkly comedic period drama set in early 18th-century England, delving into the fierce rivalry between Lady Sarah (Rachel Weisz) and Abigail (Emma Stone) as they compete for the favor of the fragile and emotionally erratic Queen Anne (Olivia Colman). The film stands out with its visually stunning production design and unconventional cinematography, which highlight the absurdity and cruelty of life at court.
Olivia Colman gives a remarkable performance, skillfully balancing vulnerability with volatility, while Weisz and Stone excel in their roles as manipulative and ambitious women. The sharp, witty script weaves humor and emotional depth, making The Favourite a brilliantly satirical commentary on power, politics, and personal dynamics.
The Favourite Trailer
The Favourite Screenshot
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