Quite good, indeed...

Rating: 9/10 (25 January 2007)

Yes, I must say that this film does deserve all of it's nominations from the Academy. It was, indeed, a very good film. Besides just having a wonderful leading lady, a fine director, and a well-written script, it had more to it's name- It's just a very beautiful story.
The Queen of England is faced with a situation of what to do when Princess Diana is killed. She is demanded by the people to become a "public mourner" and change the way she's lived her entire life, all for a woman who chose against her family and stood for everything the Queen didn't.
Helen Mirren gives a fine performance in the lead role. She transforms herself completely into the character, and is instantly believable. You cannot help but understand what she's going through. She deserves her Best Actress nomination. Other than that, the supporting cast is generally average. Michael Sheen does turn in nice work as Tony Blair, the new Prime Minister who very much stands for change.
Ultiamtely, it's just a very good look at a very good woman. An excellent script from a very good story, and a wonderful leading performance. Don't be surprised if you are near tears more than once. There is one especially lovely scene near the end with a little girl holding flowers for a very special person. That scene is just one of many excellent throughout the film. A good movie, indeed. 8/10 stars!
Jay Addison