“The Favourite” — which is a major hit with critics and audiences around the world and is getting major Oscar buzz — features an award-winning all-star cast, including Rachel Weisz, Emma Stone and Olivia Colman.
Early 18th century. England is at war with the French. Nevertheless, duck racing and pineapple eating are thriving. A frail Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) occupies the throne and her close friend Lady Sarah Churchill (Rachel Weisz) governs the country in her stead while tending to Anne’s ill health and mercurial temper.
When a new servant Abigail Masham (Emma Stone) arrives, her charm endears her to Sarah. Sarah takes Abigail under her wing and Abigail sees a chance at a return to her aristocratic roots.
As the politics of war become quite time consuming for Sarah, Abigail steps into the breach to fill in as the Queen’s companion. Their burgeoning friendship gives her a chance to fulfill her ambitions and she will not let woman, man, politics or rabbit stand in her way.
“Magnificent! One of the best films of the year! ‘The Favourite’ is witty, fun, extremely relevant and impeccably performed.” — Lynn Hirschberg, W Magazine
“Fabulously entertaining, sumptuously crafted, delectably witty.” — David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter
“A perfectly cut diamond of a movie.” — Owen Gleiberman, Variety
“A crowning achievement. A royal period piece led by the majestic triumvirate of Olivia Colman, Emma Stone and Rachel Weisz.” — Michael Nordine, IndieWire
“A bawdy, brilliant triumph! ‘The Favourite’ belongs to its fierce, profanely funny ladies.” — Peter Travers, Rolling Stone
“More pure, devious fun than any other great movie this year.” — Justin Chang, Los Angeles Times