Excellent, but, like so MANY historical biography movies, has gross inaccuracies.

Rating: Null/10 (20 December 2018)

I saw this film this afternoon at our local art house; the costumes and sets were sumptuous, the dialogue scathingly witty, and the acting left NOTHING to be desired. I realize that most moviegoers aren't going to give one hoot or another about what I'm about to kvetch about, but, why, why, WHY is it that this film--like so MANY historical/biographical movies, HAS to have so many inaccuracies? So...here goes. Firstly, Abigail Hill Masham came into the household of Sarah, Duchess of Marlborough, before Anne had become queen, not after she was already on the throne, and every biography I've read of Anne mentions NOTHING about her having started service in the palace as a scullery maid. Secondly....and, again, based upon my reading, there is NO evidence of Anne having kept pet rabbits. Thirdly--and, this is my biggest beef--NO biography I've EVER read of Anne, Sarah, and Abigail has implied or mentioned any sort of lesbian relationship among them; if anything, Anne was so devoted to the memory of her dead husband, Prince George of Denmark, and such a staunch "defender of the faith," that such an idea is ludicrous. The particular scene where Anne tells Sarah that she's going to keep Abigail on because of her "talents with her tongue" (paraphrased) defies belief. Was Anne emotionally dependent on both these women? Undoubtedly! Is it a leap to ascribe it to lesbianism? MOST DEFINITELY! Fourthly, there is NO historical record of Abigail having poisoned Sarah's tea or Sarah being kidnapped and held prisoner. Fifthly, neither woman would have had the effrontery to call the Queen "Anne." It IS true that Sarah and Anne's pet names for each other were "Mrs. Morley and Mrs. Freeman," but, that was at Anne's earlier request. All this being said, I give this film a 6.5/7 out of 10. My beef is why this film, like so many historical films, has to stretch the truth so much to "sell" the movie. As an aside, I don't understand why a lot of people who reviewed this have a problem with the ending. It was perfectly clear to me. When you get to the top, it's not all rosy. Or, to quote a cliche.....be careful what you ask for; you might get it.