Sure to reap countless awards come next year's Oscar ceremonies is The Queen, a monumental portrait of the ruling elite from Miramax Films and Alliance Atlantis Releasing. Director Stephen Frears (Mrs Henderson Presents) turns out a top British cast in this wonderful look into the relationship between The Queen and the Prime Minister. Full value fun awaits all at Vancouver's Tinseltown (on Pender, free parking) and the Park Theatre.
Action in The Queen revolves around a new government and an old monarch. Never one to like change Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II finds it hard to deal with a new younger Prime Minister. Enter Labour leader Tony Blair. Young, smart and with a devilish smile you can just sense the coldness between the pair at their very first thing. Tradition means everything to Queen Elizabeth II and her family who have not exactly seen eye to eye with politicians, let alone each other.
Outsiders get an inside peak into the workings of both Buckingham Palace and No. 10 Downing Street as tragedy strikes the country. News of the death of Diana sparks just an unbelievable moment in history as The Queen and Blair agree to differ on how to "handle" the situation.
Frank, open and honest Frears treats us to an inside look at the plight of two families apparently headed on a collision course concerning an upcoming funeral. Subtle use of archival footage of Diana and her friends helps flesh out this 97-minute story that does justice to her honour while examining all the politics and internal affairs at the highest levels of British society and government.
Odds are pretty good that actress Helen Mirren (Calendar Girls) will bag an Oscar for her outstanding portrayal of living monarch Queen Elizabeth II. Equal opportunity strikes twice with Michael Sheen (Laws of Attraction) also likely heading down that Academy aisle with at the very least a nomination for best supporting actor (if not actor) for a spot on portrayal of current Prime Minister Blair.
I can't help but stress the wonderful acting in this movie. Apart from that, the sets showcasing the royal homes are magnificent. Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous either must be advising the filmmakers or be on the Royals' payroll as their living quarters must be seen to be believed. Decadent comes to mind to describe their lifestyle, along with a solid degree of aloofness.
Each member of the staffs of both the Prime Minister and Her Royal Highness are flawless in their duties and portrayals. Hats off and special mention must go to James Cromwell (Babe) as Prince Phillip, Alex Jennings (Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason) as his son and Helen McCrory (Casanova) as an uppity Cherie Blair.
Not to be missed, The Queen will go down as one of the very best movies of 2006 - or any other year. Consider this to be a terrific actor's movie that's crowd pleasing, to be sure.
Read more reviews by Robert at www.moviereviewssite.com
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