By Josh Tarpley
From Focus Features and the producers of “Les Misérables,” Saoirse Ronan will start in the upcoming period piece, “Mary, Queen of Scots.” Adapting the true story of Mary Stuart, the 16th century French Queen who returned to Scotland to reclaim that throne, “Mary, Queen of Scots” has some impressive talent behind it and is poised to be one of 2018’s most anticipated.
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As mentioned, the story will follow Mary Stuart returning to Scotland, which had fallen under the control of Queen Elizabeth I, played by Margot Robbie. David Tennant (“Doctor Who,” “Jessica Jones”) and Guy Pearce (“Alien: Covenant,” “Memento”) have joined the cast, filling out a stellar supporting lineup.
This will not be the first feature titled “Mary, Queen of Scots.” There was the 1971 Universal film that starred Vanessa Redgrave and Glenda Jackson. If it is hope for the current production, the 70’s film received five nominations at the Academy Awards that year, including a Best Actress nomination for Redgrave.
After Saoirse Ronan’s nomination in 2015 for “Brooklyn,” it is clear that “Mary, Queen of Scots” will be an awards play for Focus Features. The film will mark the directorial debut for Josie Rourke, who has previously worked with David Tennant on the stage. Maybe most exciting for American audiences, is the screenplay written by “House of Cards” showrunner Beau Willimon, who also received an Oscar nomination for 2011’s “The Ides of March.”
Have you seen the 1971 film? Are you looking forward to a Saoirse Ronan – Queen of Scots film? Let us know in the comments below!
You can follow Josh and hear more of his thoughts on the Oscars and Film on Twitter at @JoshTarpley7
