If a film's tone should reflect its subject matter, "The Queen" deserves high accolades. Director Stephen Frears' examination of Queen Elizabeth II and Prime Minister Tony Blair's actions following the death of Princess Diana can be described as austere if nothing else. Like the royal family, the narrative unfolds with crispness and formality but never generates a hint of excitement. Helen Mirren embodies all the banal qualities of Britain's reigning monarch, while also giving her a humane side not normally seen by the general public. As Tony Blair, Michael Sheen does the same. Frears and his writers want to make the story a lesson about how quickly a ruler or politician can lose favor with the common people. As Elizabeth tells Blair in the film's final scene, "It will happen to you one day as well." This reference to Blair's current situation is prescient if not subtle as are all the points made by the film. Unfortunately staying focused during its duration should prove challenging, but that's what happens when filmmakers apply a rigid style to already serious material.

War Canoe Grade: C+