Watch Queen Camilla?

Queen Camilla is a 2021 British drama film directed by Richard Curson Smith, and based on the novel The Queen and I by Sue Townsend. The film is set in an alternate universe where the royal family has been deposed and the country has become a republic. The story follows the new president, Stuart Pearson, as he implements a radical plan to sell off the royal palaces and estates to the highest bidder. But when the Queen and the rest of the royal family are forced to live on a council estate, they begin to connect with the working-class people they've never met before.

The film stars Samantha Bond as Queen Camilla, the newly-crowned monarch who finds herself struggling to adapt to her new reality. David Walliams plays President Pearson, a socialist politician who is determined to dismantle the monarchy and bring about a more equal society. Other notable cast members include Amanda Abbington as Kate, the Queen's lady-in-waiting, and Frances Barber as Prime Minister D.C. Scullion, who sees the royal family as a threat to her power.

The film explores themes of class, identity, and power as the Queen and her family and the council estate residents learn to bridge their differences and find common ground. While the film is set in an alternate universe, it still touches on real-world issues such as income inequality and the role of the monarchy in modern society.

One of the strengths of the film is its cast. Samantha Bond delivers a layered performance as Queen Camilla, capturing both the regal poise and vulnerability of the character. David Walliams provides touches of comedy as President Pearson, but also brings depth to his character's political convictions. Amanda Abbington and Frances Barber also bring their A-game, creating memorable supporting characters.

The film's production design and costumes are also highlights. The contrast between the opulence of the royal palaces and the dilapidated council estate is stark and effective. The costumes also reflect the characters' changing circumstances, with the Queen and her family trading their elegant outfits for more casual clothing.

While Queen Camilla is a thoughtful and entertaining film, it's not without its flaws. The pacing can be uneven at times, with some scenes feeling rushed while others drag on. And while the film's alternate universe setting is intriguing, it also raises questions that are never fully explored.

Overall, though, Queen Camilla is a well-made film that offers a fresh take on a well-trodden genre. It's a great showcase for its talented cast, and its themes of unity and empathy are especially resonant in today's world. Fans of the novel will likely appreciate this faithful adaptation, and newcomers will find much to admire as well.

Queen Camilla? is a 1999 documentary with a runtime of 52 minutes.