Mary Queen of Scots (2018) is a historical drama film directed by Josie Rourke. The movie is based on John Guy’s biography Queen of Scots: The True Life of Mary Stuart and explores the turbulent life of Mary Stuart, the Queen of Scotland, as well as her complex relationship with her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I of England.

Plot Summary:

The story follows Mary Stuart (Saoirse Ronan), who returns to Scotland after the death of her first husband, the King of France. As a Catholic and rightful heir to the Scottish throne, she seeks to unite Scotland and England under her rule. However, this puts her in direct conflict with her Protestant cousin, Queen Elizabeth I (Margot Robbie), who faces threats to her throne from all sides.

The film portrays the political intrigue, betrayals, and power struggles between the two queens. While Elizabeth rules England with caution, Mary is depicted as a strong and determined ruler, but her decisions lead to rebellion, betrayal, and ultimately her downfall.

The tension between Mary and Elizabeth culminates in a dramatic fictional meeting between the two, showcasing their mutual respect but also the insurmountable challenges they face due to their positions. The film highlights themes of female power, rivalry, and the challenges of leadership in a male-dominated world.

Mary Queen of Scots received praise for its performances, particularly those of Ronan and Robbie, as well as its costume design and cinematography. However, some critics pointed out historical inaccuracies and a slow pace. Despite this, the film is recognized for its compelling portrayal of two iconic women in British history.