Story Overview

The Favourite is set in the early 18th century, at a time when England is at war with France. While the conflict rages abroad, life at court is dominated by rituals of excess, political maneuvering, and personal rivalries. On the throne sits the fragile and emotionally volatile Queen Anne, whose poor health leaves the true governance of the country largely in the hands of her closest confidante.

Lady Sarah Churchill, the Duchess of Marlborough, serves as the Queen’s right hand—her advisor, protector, and secret lover. While tending to Anne’s unstable moods and physical ailments, Sarah effectively rules the nation in her stead. The delicate balance of power is disrupted with the arrival of Abigail, a newly appointed servant whose intelligence and charm quickly earn her Sarah’s favor. Taken under Lady Sarah’s wing, Abigail seizes the opportunity to reclaim her fallen aristocratic status.

As Sarah becomes increasingly consumed by the politics of war, Abigail steps in to provide companionship to the Queen. What begins as an innocent friendship soon evolves into a ruthless struggle for influence. Driven by ambition, Abigail manipulates affection, loyalty, and desire, determined to let no woman, man, or political obstacle stand in her way.

Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and starring Olivia Colman, Rachel Weisz, and Emma Stone, The Favourite is a sharp, darkly comedic exploration of power, intimacy, and manipulation, revealing how personal desires can shape the fate of nations.