with its strong emphasis on institutionalized sexism, Josie Rourke's film feels well suited to the #MeToo moment, contrasting Mary and Elizabeth's far different strategies for maintaining what each believed to be her God-given legacy
Saoirse Ronan and Margot Robbie shine in this exceedingly of-the-political-moment telling of a compelling story; Director Rourke exhibits confidence and enthusiasm in dealing with such juicy material in the company of her two outstanding young actresse
Rourke and Willimon have crafted a juicy, darkly compelling drama that offers a sleek alternative to what's come before; The film's most thrilling pleasure is a show-stopping lead performance from Saoirse Ronan...she's note-perfect as Mary
Mary Queen of Scots is no staid, stuffy period drama, as restrained as the breathing of corseted women. Instead, this a vital film, whose lace-trimmed bosom heaves with life
Josie Rourke's "Mary Queen of Scots" is an epic look at the intimate frustrations of two massively powerful young women who spend most of their energy navigating between who they are and what they represent
a history lesson with more fire in the belly than most. It turns out that a feminist angle really can revive the same old Tudor psychodramas, thanks in large part to Ronan and Robbie’s authoritative performance
"Mary Queen of Scots", visually dull and intriguing in only the most generic sense, but still a showcase for the twin talents of Saoirse Ronan and Margot Robbie
by Joshua Rothkopf [Time Out New York ]
