Perhaps not everyone's cup of tea, but ...

Rating: 8/10 (13 January 2019)

... I think The Favourite has the potential to be regarded as a classic. And, no, it is NOT a comedy, although a smattering of malevolent humour is present throughout.
This film messes with your mind. By turns, it is an unpleasant and uncomfortable watch, complete with a repetitive and deeply irritating score. It is also gives us magnificent performances from three actresses at the top of their game and fabulous support from Nicholas Hoult and Joe Alwyn in all their fantastically bewigged, foppish glory. Special mention must also go to the 17 bunnies and Horatio, The Fastest Duck in the City!
This is a fictional account of lives of the three main protagonists. The jury remains out concerning the true nature of the relationship between Queen Anne, Lady Sarah Churchill and Abigail Masham, although it is clear from historical records that, for a time at least, Anne and Sarah did share a close bond of friendship.
I came out of this film feeling confused, annoyed and empowered and it continues to make me think. Yorgos Lanthimos is a puppet master extraordinaire.
If Sandy Powell doesn't receive an Oscar for Costume Design, then there is no justice. Unfortunately, the Sound Department did a less impressive job, particularly in the scenes where Sarah and Abigail are shooting outdoors. The dialogue was was so obviously recorded in a studio and it stuck out like a sore thumb.
The Favourite is nasty, dark, menacing, sly and filthy. Impossible to warm to any of the characters but it IS possible to admire them.
Now, let's shoot something ....