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Poster for Mary Queen of Scots

Mary Queen of Scots

Seen it?

2018 | 124 min | Drama, History

Sunday Safe Bet

Why it’s a Sunday Safe Bet

It drew serious awards attention, though it had soft box office. A safe bet when you want something reliable.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
Made for history buffs. If you loved Braveheart or Elizabeth, start here.
The mood
Thoughtful and character-driven.
The pace
Takes its time with its characters, at 2 hr 4 min.
What might put you off
Rated R: meant for adults.

In 1561, Mary Stuart, widow of the King of France, returns to Scotland, reclaims her rightful throne and menaces the future of Queen Elizabeth I as ruler of England, because she has a legitimate claim to the English throne. Betrayals, rebellions, conspiracies and their own life choices imperil both Queens. They experience the bitter cost of power, until their tragic fate is finally fulfilled.

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsSolid

    62% on Rotten Tomatoes, 60 on Metacritic

  • AudiencesSolid

    6.5 out of 10

  • AwardsStrong

    Nominated for 2 Oscars, 1 SAG Award and 3 BAFTAs.

  • Box office & staying powerBelow par

    $49 million worldwide on a $25 million budget

  • Buzz & cultural impactSolid

    About 271K people sought it out in the past year

Trailer

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Cast & crew

Directed by Josie Rourke

  • Saoirse RonanMary Stuart
  • Margot RobbieQueen Elizabeth I
  • Jack LowdenLord Darnley
  • David TennantJohn Knox
  • Guy PearceWilliam Cecil
  • Gemma ChanBess of Hardwick
  • James McArdleJames, Earl of Moray
  • Ismael Cruz CordovaDavid Rizzio
  • Martin CompstonEarl of Bothwell
  • Joe AlwynRobert Dudley