"The Favourite": The Most Spectacularly Bizarre Film Of 2018

"The Favourite": Movie Review

Shocking, irreverent, and brutally honest, "The Favourite" is a rare movie of guilty delight. With some of the best performances of the year to boot, it's the most spectacularly bizarre movie of the year.

In 1700's England, an attention seeking Queen (Olivia Coleman) and her power seeking friend (Rachel Weisz) get confronted by a new servant (Emma Stone) who has her own agenda.

Director Yorgos Lanthimos ("The Lobster", "The Killing of A Sacred Deer") has made himself quite the director. The acting, camera work, and the subtle nuances sprinkled throughout shows an attention to detail that gives each scene a purpose.

Emma Stone should be given the Oscar in advance. Her role as the agenda filled servant is remarkably sublime. Rachel Weisz is deliciously twisted, and her relationship with the Queen is just as shockingly transparent. Lanthimos has mastered his cast of characters with a devilish delight.

The production, costume design, and scenery is eye popping. Oscars should be given out to cinematographer Robbie Ryan and costume designer Sandy Powell.

About seventy five percent through however, "The Favourite" hits a wall. The tension, character development, and its dark brooding humor is lost in the bizarre world it sets up. Just as you think the film is going to hit it's climax, it ends and will you leave wanting more.

"The Favourite" is not for everyone. Its shock value is high, and might offend the senses in more ways than one.  But those who are willing to dare walk into Lanthimos's world will be put on a supremely outlandish ride. 

3 Stars Out Of 4