
16/05/2025
Set during one of the most turbulent periods in British history, Mary Queen of Scots (2018) brings to life the political intrigue and personal drama of the 16th century. Mary Stuart, born in 1542, became Queen of Scotland just six days after her birth. Following the death of her first husband, the King of France, Mary returned to Scotland in 1561 to reclaim her throne. This was a time of deep religious division, with Protestant reform spreading rapidly through Europe, and Mary's Catholic faith placed her at odds with many of her subjects and with Protestant Queen Elizabeth I of England. Their rivalry, central to the film, underscores the power dynamics of monarchy, gender, and loyalty during the Tudor era.
The 2018 film takes viewers through Mary's attempts to rule Scotland independently while navigating pressure from nobles, threats of betrayal, and her complicated relationship with Elizabeth I. Although the two queens never met in real life, the film imagines a dramatic encounter that symbolizes their power struggle and shared burdens. Mary's reign ended in 1567 when she was forced to abdicate in favor of her infant son, James VI. She fled to England, seeking Elizabeth’s protection, but was imprisoned for 19 years and ultimately executed in 1587 for allegedly plotting against Elizabeth’s life—a moment that reshaped the British monarchy and eventually led to her son inheriting the English crown.
Rich in historical fashion, Mary Queen of Scots stands out for its stylized yet detailed costumes. The 16th-century court attire featured in the film includes velvet gowns, intricate embroidery, and elaborate ruffs—all inspired by the late Renaissance era. These designs echo the film’s themes of status, identity, and feminine strength in a male-dominated world. The visual grandeur, paired with powerful performances, makes the film a standout period piece.