If you’re craving an engrossing costume drama this weekend, look no further than Disney+’s stunning historical drama set in the 16th century. With breathtaking filming locations and powerful performances, this film is sure to captivate.
Mary Queen of Scots first graced screens in 2018, featuring acclaimed actors Saoirse Ronan as Mary Stuart and Margot Robbie as her cousin Queen Elizabeth I. The film adapts John Guy’s 2004 biography, Queen of Scots: The True Life of Mary Stuart, exploring the tense rivalry between Mary and Elizabeth for the throne.
The talented cast also includes Jack Lowden, Joe Alwyn, David Tennant, and Guy Pearce, delivering strong performances that bring the historical figures to life.
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Filming took place across various scenic locations, including Oxfordshire, Edinburgh, Derbyshire, the Scottish Highlands, Pinewood Studios, and Gloucestershire. Notably, Gloucester Cathedral—renowned for its Gothic architecture and previous appearances in Harry Potter, Doctor Who, and Sherlock—features prominently in the movie.
Scottish landscapes such as Blackness Castle, Aviemore, Edinburgh, and Seacliff Beach in North Berwick enrich the film’s authentic setting. Additionally, the National Trust’s Hardwick Hall in Derbyshire, a magnificent Elizabethan mansion boasting Italian Renaissance architecture and historic artefacts, was used to capture period grandeur.
Audiences have praised Mary Queen of Scots on IMDb, with many highlighting the compelling performances of Ronan and Robbie. One review awarded the film 8/10, calling it “a powerful story about powerful women” and likening Ronan’s portrayal to that of Meryl Streep, while noting Robbie’s nuanced performance as a “memorably neurotic but sympathetic Elizabeth.”
Another 8/10 reviewer recommended the film as “a great movie” filled with “glorious acting, beautiful women, and wonderful drama,” praising Ronan’s dual strength and gentleness on screen. The stunning costumes and scenery also drew high acclaim for their visual beauty.
Further praise came for the film’s pacing, acting, and attention to detail in costumes and cinematography. The political intrigue and court machinations leading to Mary’s tragic fate were described as fascinating, contributing to a riveting viewing experience.
Mary Queen of Scots is currently streaming on Disney+, making it a perfect choice for history enthusiasts and drama fans alike.