A period drama streaming on Prime Video is being described by fans as a “masterpiece” and “the best movie we’ve seen”, with some saying it’s one of the most gripping films in recent years. Set in 18th-century Britain, the story follows a royal love triangle full of manipulation, betrayal and dark comedy. It’s been praised for its razor-sharp writing, “bold cinematography and unforgettable performances” from its three leading stars.
The film in question is The Favourite, starring Olivia Colman, Emma Stone and Rachel Weisz. Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, it won Colman an Oscar for Best Actress and went on to earn ten Academy Award nominations. Viewers who recently discovered the movie on streaming platforms have not held back in their praise.
One wrote: “The Favourite is, so far, the best movie I’ve seen. Its sharp intelligence and sarcastic approach devours the mind, cinematography wows, acting mesmerizes and overwhelms, soundtrack creates with the atmosphere of the movie that is so raw and somehow relatable to this day.”
Another added: “Whenever a movie splits an audience into 10 and zero ratings you usually have a masterpiece. This movie is a masterpiece.”
Many highlighted the unique style and tone of the film. One reviewer wrote: “Enthralling from the very beginning and bursting with enthusiasm, this endlessly funny period piece, mixed with a ravishing love triangle, is Lanthimos at his most accessible, all while maintaining the mordacious social commentary and absurdist tone that made him such a phenomenon.”
They added: “Needless to say, The Favourite is marvelously shot, capturing with elegance the grandeur of its setting through gorgeous steadicam and extravagant wide angles, but what really sets it apart are the characters that are shown against it.”
The plot is loosely based on real events and centres around Queen Anne’s close relationships with two cousins competing for her favour at court.
Though not strictly historically accurate, critics have praised its modern style, dark humour and emotional depth.
One fan said: “As you go through the plot it keeps getting more and more interesting, great performances from Emma Stone, Rachel Weisz and Olivia Colman.”
Critics agree. Peter Travers of the Rolling Stone said: “Emma Stone, Rachel Weisz and the mighty Olivia Colman turn a period piece into a caustic comeuppance comedy with fangs and claws. It’s a bawdy, brilliant triumph.”
The film premiered in 2018 and quickly became a hit with audiences. Since then, it’s often appeared on lists of the best movies of the 21st century.
The Favourite is available to rent or buy on Prime Video.