Yorgos Lanthimos is a director who I always like to keep an eye on as a film lover. The reason for this is that he creates worlds and tells stories that are anything but standard or predictable. In The Lobster single people had to find a partner within 45 days or else they would change in animals and in The Killing of a Sacred Deer he plays with extortion and possibly supernatural powers, resulting in a number of very memorable moments. As a result, these films may be strange and not easily watched by everyone, but I really enjoy them myself. The Favourite is perhaps his most accessible film and has received a lot of Oscar nominations and Olivia Colman won the statuette for best actress (and had an amazing Oscar speech). What makes this film so special?
Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) reigns in the 18th century, but struggles with her health. Her friend Lady Sarah (Rachel Weisz) takes care of her and takes important decisions in her place. Abigail (Emma Stone) arrives at the royal palace as a maid. She quickly is noticed by the queen, which creates friction with Sarah.
I generally do not actually watch costume movies. They are not films that I really enjoy because they do not appeal to me. Yet I was very entertained watching this film. The acting of the cast is excellent (the Oscar for Colman is right), the dialogue is sharp and because this is a Lanthimos film, it is full of striking shots and shocking moments. And then I have not even mentioned the humor, which is very funny. Lanthimos remains a fascinating director who will probably be given even more chances with his Oscar-success to bring other visions of his to the big screen, which is a nice prospect.
[score8]
I really, really wish I liked this film as much as most people do. Unfortunately I just couldn’t get onboard with it. I do like the performances (Hoult is hysterical) and it looks amazing. Otherwise I was pretty luke-warm.
Well, it sometimes happen and have experienced the same in the past with movies like La La Land and Boyhood.
This isn’t my usual cup of tea either but I’ll watch anything Lanthimos makes! Really glad I gave this one the chance because I really enjoyed it, although it took a few days for my thoughts to settle.
Yeah, me too! I listened to the /Filmcast, which helped quite a bit in understanding some sequences better.