Move Review: Mary Queen of Scots

We’re diving into the 2018 film Mary Queen of Scots—and… we have thoughts. We break down where the film struggles—rushed storytelling, missing character development, and some interesting creative choices that prioritize drama over historical accuracy. From confusing timelines to major events getting glossed over, this is one of those movies that probably should’ve been a miniseries.

We also get into the portrayal of Mary, Queen of Scots vs. Elizabeth I, what the film gets wrong (and right), and the moments that had us fully yelling at the screen.

Bottom line: beautiful to look at, frustrating to watch.

Time stamps:

00:00 First Impressions

00:23 Acting Praise

01:31 Bored and Confused First Watch

03:17 Accents and Casting Choices

08:01 John Knox Tangent

09:59 Feminist Focus Debate

11:33 Costume Nitpicks and Party

13:01 Rizzio and Modern Agenda

23:37 Aftermath and Warrior Queen Bits

24:39 Rizzio Confrontation

26:48 Elizabeth Jealousy Debate

27:57 Rizzio Murder Fallout

32:17 Darnley Explosion

34:20 Bothwell Abduction Controversy

37:50 Escape and England

41:59 Execution and Final Verdict