Margot Robbie barely recognisable in ‘misunderstood’ movie adapted from little-known book

Saoirse Ronan stars as the Scottish queen alongside Margot Robbie, who is unrecognisable in full period drama costume and makeup as Queen Elizabeth I

Margot Robbie in Mary Queen of Scots (Image: Publicity Picture)

This gripping historical drama is inspired by the true story of two royal figures, each portrayed by a pair of Hollywood’s biggest names.

Adapted from John Guy’s 2004 biography, Queen of Scots: The True Life of Mary Stuart, the film breathes new life into the tale of the Scottish monarch, transporting her story from the written page to the big screen.

Celebrated Irish actress Saoirse Ronan takes on the role of the ill-fated Scottish queen, while Margot Robbie stars as her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I, delivering a compelling portrayal of their turbulent relationship.

Mary Queen of Scots, the 2018 period drama, sent shockwaves through audiences worldwide when they witnessed Margot Robbie — renowned for her striking looks and exceptional talent — utterly unrecognisable beneath elaborate costume and makeup.

The production employed numerous fictionalised elements to depict the complex dynamic between the two monarchs. Audiences follow Mary as she returns to Scotland from France to reclaim her rightful Catholic throne, only to find herself at odds with the Protestant Queen of England, who seeks absolute dominance.

he film was released in 2018 (Image: © 2018 FOCUS FEATURES LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.)

Mary Queen of Scots endured more than 18 years of imprisonment during her tragically brief life, before being convicted of conspiring to assassinate the queen — her own flesh and blood.

Elizabeth ultimately ordered Mary’s execution by beheading at Fotheringhay Castle, a fateful end that some historians believe may have been part of a far more calculated scheme.

While it may not be entirely faithful to the historical record, which has drawn no shortage of criticism, it is the depiction of these compelling historical women that truly resonated with cinema-goers.

One review on Rotten Tomatoes says: “A very powerful look at women in power and women in politics, at a time when women were even more ‘under a rock’ than they are (to a lesser extent) now, with incredibly strong performances from both Ronan and Robbie.

The stars received considerable praise for their performances (Image: undefined)

“I love how both queens’ visceral qualities are displayed and how each woman is unabashed, fierce, and real. The parts of the movie that seem to be slower or less immersive than they perhaps should have been are still engrossing because of the lead performances.”

Another satisfied viewer shared: “I think time will look very favourably upon this misunderstood masterpiece. There is some incredible casting, some stunning acting performances, and as a whole, it is a beautiful feast for the eyes.

“Ronin is spectacular. Spellbinding. Lowden is amazing. A truly stunning film and one which lives with me and deserves so much more praise than it seems to get. Beautiful. I think it’s excellent.”

Joining the two lead actresses on screen is a supporting cast comprising Jack Lowden, Joe Alwyn, David Tennant, and Guy Pearce. Despite the remarkable talent assembled, it was ultimately the production and design elements that earned Mary Queen of Scots its Oscar nominations.

One viewer said: “If you like strongly scripted and well-acted period dramas, then this is for you. Ronan and Robbie are excellent and well supported by Martin Compston and Jack Lowden.”

For those eager to witness the dramatic rivalry between these formidable monarchs brought to life by an A-list cast, Mary Queen of Scots is currently available to rent on Amazon Prime, as well as on Apple TV.