The Queen

Directed by Stephen Frears, this drama centers on the aftermath of Princess Diana’s death, as Queen Elizabeth (Helen Mirren) battles Tony Blair (Michael Sheen) over the appropriate degree of national mourning. Frears incisively captures the tension betwen the monarchy and everyday British life. In the title role, Mirren conveys a living queen at once regal and empathetically real.

An Oscar winner for Best Actress in a Leading Role.

The 2007 Golden Globe winner for Best Actress and Best Screenplay.

The L.A. Film Critics Association named Helen Mirren Best Actress of 2006 and also gave the supporting actor to Michael Sheen for his performance as British Prime Minister Tony Blair, the best screenplay prize to Peter Morgan and and best score to Alexandre Desplat, who was also lauded for his work on THE PAINTED VEIL. THE QUEEN was also LAFCA’s runner-up for Best Picture.

The New York Film Critics Circle also awarded the film Best Screenplay of 2006.

“Tradition and informality collide - and mutually benefit - in the deliciously written and expertly played "The Queen." Dramatised version of the week following the death of Princess Di, from the different vantage points of the British Royal Family and newly elected P.M. Tony Blair, cheekily mixes on-the-nail perfs and docu footage into a witty, and finally moving, recreation of a period that challenged both royals and pols in their responses. Toplined by a socko performance from Helen Mirren, the small, upscale pic should prove a modest theatrical success on the back of heavy promo and positive crix, with lotsa ancillary mileage.” (Variety)