Queen Elizabeth II (Helen Mirren, terrific) decides how to arrange for Princess Diana’s funeral in the wake of the princess’ 1997 death. The queen is advised by recently elected Prime Minister Tony Blair (Michael Sheen, splendid). It’s directed by Stephen Frears (“Mrs. Henderson Presents,” “High Fidelity.”)
Big question: Can “The Queen” explore the inner-workings of the British monarchy while capturing the worldwide sadness over Diana’s death?
Catch it: The script is elegant, and the performances are dignified. An Oscar-worthy Mirren portrays the queen as committed to the ways of the old-fashioned monarchy but having an increasing awareness that it may take a modern approach to mourn a present tragedy.
Skip it: If you are worried about the depth of your curtsy. The movie will only make you more anxious about the next time you’re in the presence of royalty!
Bottom line: “The Queen” honors Princess Di’s work while acknowledging her rocky relationship with the queen, and the film makes you wonder what might have been different if Blair had not advised her majesty. “The Queen” is a graceful depiction of a leader discovering that when orchestrating an adored leader’s funeral, even a monarchy is subject to rule of the people.
Bonus: Take a look at a government not struggling with corruption or plummeting approval ratings. What a concept!
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MPAIS@TRIBUNE.COM
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