Mary Queen of Scots review

Mary Queen of Scotland. Elizabeth Queen of England, Ireland and Wales. Two cousins at war. It's a set-up that's been done before especially the cousins at war scenario but Mary Queen of Scots somehow manages to differ from movies in the same vein before it. Starring Saoirse Ronan as Mary and Margot Robbie as Elizabeth this movie offers a unique and interesting delve into the lives of these characters. And what lives they did live indeed as not only were they closely watched at every step and constantly monitored it was Mary who took the majority of the blow and this movie doesn't shy away from that fact.

Saoirse Ronan is easily the standout here and plays her role almost perfectly. Her accent drifts from time to time but for the most part it's really consistent and believable. Margot Robbie is good here also but looks a bit lost and bored in some scenes I don't know what it was about her performance but it wasn't up to par. Especially when you factor in the before mentioned Saoirse Ronan's performance which is certainly movie stealing at times. The pacing for the most part is pretty good however there is some scenes that didn't need even be included and a death/murder scene that is beyond horrifying to watch.

Betrayal, lust, power, vengeance and more are all put to the forefront in Mary Queen of Scots and while it does manage them well it feels overly long at times and some performances just fall flat. Saoirse Ronan is totally believable and the rest do a fine job but this movie will be remembered for it's main star and that is Mary Stewart. An enjoyable if somewhat flawed look at the lives of both Mary & Elizabeth and something that you should check out especially if you're big into history.

★★★