‘The Favourite’ (2018): A Wickedly Sharp Tale of Power, Lust, and Betrayal

Few period dramas have the audacity to be as darkly comedic and fiercely unpredictable as The Favourite (2018). Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, the film reinvents historical storytelling with biting humor, political intrigue, and dazzling performances. If you think this is just another royal costume drama, think again — The Favourite is a ruthless battle of wits wrapped in absurdity and laced with venom.

Plot Overview (Spoiler-Free)

Set in early 18th-century England, Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) is a frail and erratic ruler, more preoccupied with her pet rabbits and gout than governing the nation. The real power rests with her closest confidante and secret lover, Lady Sarah Churchill (Rachel Weisz), who skillfully manipulates the Queen’s decisions while keeping political affairs in check. Enter Abigail Hill (Emma Stone), a seemingly innocent newcomer who quickly proves herself far more cunning than she appears. What unfolds is a vicious game of deception and seduction as Abigail and Sarah engage in a psychological war for the Queen’s favor — and control over the kingdom.

Director’s Vision: A Subversive Masterpiece

Yorgos Lanthimos (The Lobster, The Killing of a Sacred Deer) is known for his unsettling and absurdist storytelling, and The Favourite is no exception. He injects the film with his signature blend of offbeat humor and unnerving tension, making every interaction unpredictable. The film’s pacing is razor-sharp, and the dialogue crackles with wit. What truly sets The Favourite apart is its ability to balance outrageous comedy with genuine pathos, as Queen Anne’s emotional fragility is laid bare beneath the film’s power struggles.

Performances: A Trio of Brilliance

Olivia Colman’s Oscar-winning performance as Queen Anne is nothing short of breathtaking. She portrays the monarch as petulant, emotionally volatile, and heartbreakingly lonely. Colman’s ability to shift between tragic vulnerability and comedic absurdity makes Anne one of the most fascinating rulers ever depicted on screen.

Rachel Weisz is commanding as Lady Sarah, exuding intelligence, dominance, and occasional tenderness. Meanwhile, Emma Stone delivers one of her most dynamic performances as Abigail, seamlessly transitioning from wide-eyed innocence to ruthless ambition. Their chemistry is electric, turning every conversation into a verbal duel.

Cinematography and Sound: A Feast for the Senses

Robbie Ryan’s cinematography makes exquisite use of fish-eye lenses and natural lighting, creating an eerie, immersive atmosphere. The film’s aesthetic is unconventional for a period drama — opulent yet distorted, reflecting the twisted nature of the story. The sound design is equally compelling, with an eerie, minimalist score that heightens the film’s tension while emphasizing its absurdist undertones.

Themes and Symbolism: Power, Gender, and Manipulation

Beneath its comedic surface, The Favourite explores the dangerous games of power, survival, and female agency. The film subverts traditional depictions of women in period dramas—these characters aren’t just accessories to men’s ambitions; they are the power players. Lanthimos also critiques the performative nature of politics, where affection and loyalty are mere tools in a larger, more brutal game.

Factual Details and Recognition

• IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
• Budget: $15 million
• Box Office: $95 million
• Awards: 10 Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. Olivia Colman won the Academy Award for Best Actress.
• Metacritic Score: 90

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Fans of Dark Comedy and Political Intrigue

The Favourite is not your traditional historical drama — it’s an outrageous, wickedly entertaining battle of power and deception. With stellar performances, a subversive script, and a director unafraid to push boundaries, this film is an absolute must-watch. Whether you’re drawn to the razor-sharp dialogue, the stunning visuals, or the cutthroat power plays, The Favourite will leave you mesmerized — and perhaps questioning just how far one might go to claim the throne.

Rating: 9/10 – Deliciously twisted and masterfully crafted.

Academy Awards:

Winner: Best Actress (Olivia Colman)

Nominations: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actress (Weisz and Stone), Best Original Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, Best Costume Design, Best Editing