Oh, that wacky Queen Anne. She ruled 18th century England by whim & petulance, and the suggestions of her favorites in court, including her "loving" cousin lady Sarah. "The Favourite" comes from director Yorgos Lanthimos ("The Killing of a Sacred Deer," The Lobster.) He entertains filmgoers, while making us feel uncomfortable. British actress Olivia Colman plays Queen Anne with cruelty and wicked humor. Rachel Weisz chews the scenery as the Queen's advisor/lover. Emma Stone arrives as a poor cousin, who works her way up from servant to rival. "The Favourite" feels like an erotic twist on "All About Eve." It jolts viewers with out-of-the-blue contemporary references, and throws in an unforgettable dance number destined to leave you shaking your head (or maybe just shaking.) About two-thirds of the way in, the sex, jokes and intrigue wear thin. I had great fun watching "The Favourite," until I didn't. "The Favourite," 2½ stars, rated "R." Does it deliver what it promises? Sex, power, and history (as comedy.) Is it entertaining? Jolting. Is it worth the price of admission? For the art house crowd: Others will walk out, scratching their head.
