Queen Mirren.

Rating: 10/10 (14 September 2015)

The Queen (2006): Dir: Stephen Frears / Cast: Helen Mirren, Michael Sheen, James Cromwell, Alex Jennings, Helen McCrory: Powerful film about positions of high authority and their limitations. It focuses on the events surrounding the death of Princess Diana and the anger directed towards the royal family. It also gives insight into the involvement of British Prime Minister Tony Blair who maintains contact with Queen Elizabeth. Director Stephen Frears has made such triumphs as High Fidelity and Dirty Pretty Things. Here is another example of his great talent using actual news footage as well as give insight behind the Queen's reaction. Helen Mirren gives a flawless performance as Elizabeth seen as ambitious yet somewhat trapped in her position. Her best scene arrives when a young girl at the front gate presents her with flowers when she thought they were for Diana. Michael Sheen plays Tony Blair who deals with media issues surrounding Diana's death as well as stir Elizabeth towards a public funeral. James Cromwell appears as Prince Phillip while Alex Jennings appears as a worried Prince Charles. Helen McCrory plays Tony Blair's wife, Cherie. Regardless of one's thoughts on the situation surrounding Diana or the Queen, this film certainly acts as a testimony of sorts from her end. Beautifully crafted film that allows viewers to glimpse Queen Elizabeth as a human being. Score: 10 / 10