"The Favourite Draws Inspiration from Real Individuals and Authentic Events"
In a chat with director Yorgos Lanthimos, he shared some thoughts about making a film set in another time and how it reflects our current times. According to him, films set in various periods show that not much has changed among human behavior, societies, and power structures.
Despite the fancy costumes and modern conveniences like electricity and internet, the film "The Favourite" touches on themes that feel contemporary. It's a dark yet comic tale of three dominant women fighting for love, favor, and power in the 18th-century royal court.
Based on a script crafted by Deborah Davis, a British lawyer, journalist, and scriptwriter, the film was refined by Lanthimos and Tony McNamara, an esteemed Australian film and television creative and celebrated playwright. The film marks Lanthimos' first foray into period drama, set against the luxurious backdrop of 18th-century royals.
Through Queen Anne's intricate relationships with two other women - her lifelong friend and advisor Lady Sarah, and Sarah's penniless cousin Abigail - the film delves into a whirlwind of manipulations and emotions that define palace intrigue.
As politics consume Sarah's time, Abigail steps in, becoming the Queen's companion and friend. Her growing ambition drives her to outmaneuver Sarah and win the Queen's favor without hindrances, be they women, men, politics, or even a rabbit.
Lanthimos, known for his work in dance videos, TV commercials, music videos, short films, theater plays, and peculiar period drama, felt that there were many similarities between past and present behavior, societies, and power struggles.
The film is a unique universe created by Lanthimos, who uses historical events to motivate the characters' inner lives and personal politics. While the specifics behind Queen Anne's court remain unknown, the film leaves room for speculation on the goings-on behind closed doors.
Much of the story takes place within the Royal Palace's confines, as power plays, seductions, and humorous incidents unfold, detached from the realities of the outer world. Tony McNamara, who collaborated closely with Lanthimos from the original screenplay, suggests that the film is ultimately a love story, riddled with complications that challenge the characters' connections.
The mysterious and unknown reign of Queen Anne, with 17 reported pregnancies but no heirs, sets the stage for power struggles, ambitious women, and complex relationships that provide fertile ground for Lanthimos' distinctive vision. Despite her frail health, meek demeanor, and limited education, Queen Anne was a puppet for manipulation, attracting a flurry of individuals searching for ways to gain her trust - or perhaps her heart.
Lanthimos' captivating style and vision drew producers, who marveled at his ability to create complex stories that leave audiences pondering their implications long after watching. The film's trio of feminine power-players is rare for any time period, let alone in the so-called days of pre-Enlightenment.
The film took almost two decades to develop, with its roots in a screenplay by Deborah Davis and collaborative efforts from producers and colleagues along the way. Element Pictures, Film4, and Fox Searchlight played significant roles in bringing the project to life.
In 2018, "The Favourite" premiered, dazzling audiences with its unique blend of history, drama, and humor. For a story steeped in history, the film focuses on a highly insular world, taking place largely within the Royal Palace's walls.
The unique universe crafted by Lanthimos in 'The Favourite' delves into contemporary themes, despite being set in the 18th-century royal court, making it a compelling example of period drama that offers insights into our entertainment landscape. This film, a remarkable blend of history and drama, serves as a testament to Lanthimos' talent for creating complex stories that resonate with viewers beyond the movies-and-tv screen.
