After having heard so many good things about this film, I screened it while in release. I think that I was probably expecting something a little larger and more grandiose. Actually, the Queen is, at its heart, a sweet, subtle, charming little film. You may be expecting a tell-all of inside information regarding the circumstances that surrounded the death of Princess Diana. Well, that element is touched on in the film, but mostly this is an endearing look at diplomacy between two leaders -- two human beings. The film delights in showing off the contrasts between the worlds of the Queen and Tony Blair, but only as a backdrop to the tie that binds them.
It's at once a comedy and a human drama with heart. Apt at both making you chuckle and grin, the film remains light. I would have liked to see it take a stronger grip on the emotions of its viewers. Still though, there are moments of heart. For instance, there's a mighty moment with a beautiful animal in the countryside. However, the reprise of that animal makes for a scene which doesn't play well, subtracts from the thrust of the first. Probably there was a symbolic statement there that falls a bit lost.
Over all, it's a pleasure to watch, the quiet climax is sweet and Helen Mirren is absolutely regal as the queen. Michael Sheen as Tony Blair is also excellent and Roger Allam as Robin -- softly endearing.
This film screened at a Laemmle Theatre.
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