Fast-Paised review: 'The Queen'

Bow down to this inside look at royal rule

By Matt Pais

Queen Elizabeth II (Helen Mirren, terrific) decides how to arrange for Princess Diana's funeral in the wake of the Princess' 1997 death. The Queen is advised by recently elected Prime Minister Tony Blair (Michael Sheen, splendid). It's directed by Stephen Frears ("Mrs. Henderson Presents," "High Fidelity.")

Big question: Can "The Queen" explore the inner-workings of the British monarchy while capturing the worldwide sadness over Diana's death?

Catch it: The script is elegant and the performances are dignified. An Oscar-worthy Mirren portrays the Queen as committed to the ways of the old-fashioned monarchy but having an increasing awareness that it may take a modern approach to mourn a present tragedy.

Skip it: If you are worried about the depth of your curtsy. The movie will only make you more anxious about the next time you're in the presence of royalty!

Bottom line: "The Queen" exquisitely honors Princess Di's work while acknowledging her rocky relationship with the Queen, and the film makes you wonder what might have been different if Blair had not been there to advise her majesty. "The Queen" is a graceful depiction of a leader discovering that when orchestrating an adored leader's funeral, even a monarchy is subject to rule of the people.

Bonus: Take a look at a government not struggling with corruption or plummeting approval ratings. What a concept!

Matt Pais is the metromix movies producer.

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'The Queen''

Directed by Stephen Frears; screenplay by Peter Morgan; cinematography by Affonso Beato; edited by Lucia Zucchetti; production design by Alan Macdonald; music by Alexandre Desplat; produced by Andy Harries, Christine Langan and Tracey Seaward. A Miramax Films release; opens Friday at Landmark's Century Centre Cinema, AMC River East and Evanston CineArts. Running time: 1:43. MPAA rating: PG-13 (for brief strong language).

The Queen of England - Helen Mirren

Tony Blair - Michael Sheen

Prince Philip - James Cromwell

Cherie Blair - Helen McCrory

Prince Charles - Alex Jennings

Sir Robin Janvrin - Roger Allam

The Queen Mother - Sylvia Syms