The Queen's Sister

In the 2005 biographical drama film The Queen's Sister, Lucy Cohu stars as Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II. The film explores the tumultuous life of Princess Margaret, from her privileged upbringing to her many scandals and struggles.

The movie begins in the 1950s, with Princess Margaret in the prime of her youth. She is charming, beautiful, and adored by the public, but also reckless and prone to wild behavior. When she falls in love with Peter Townsend, a man who is not only divorced but also a member of the royal household, she sets in motion a scandal that will rock the monarchy to its core.

The Queen, played by Barbara Flynn, is determined to uphold the traditional values of the royal family and quash any hint of impropriety. She forbids Margaret from marrying Townsend, a decision that puts a strain on their relationship and causes Margaret immense frustration and heartache.

As the years roll by, Margaret continues to push boundaries and rebel against the strict rules of royal life. She drinks heavily, smokes, and has affairs with numerous men, including the dashing Lord Snowdon (played by David Threlfall). Margaret's hedonistic lifestyle puts her in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons, leading to a flurry of negative press coverage and public criticism.

Through it all, Lucy Cohu gives a powerful and nuanced performance as Princess Margaret. She captures both the glamorous side of the princess, as well as the vulnerable and flawed woman beneath the surface. Meredith MacNeill also shines in a supporting role as Margaret's loyal and long-suffering lady-in-waiting, who serves as a confidante and sounding board for the troubled princess.

One of the strengths of the film is its exploration of the complex relationship between Margaret and her sister, Queen Elizabeth II. While the two women are close in age and grew up together, they have vastly different personalities and approaches to their roles as royals. Flynn portrays Elizabeth as stoic and duty-bound, while Cohu's Margaret is emotional and impulsive. This contrast sets up a fascinating dynamic between the two, as they try to navigate the expectations of their positions while also dealing with their conflicting personalities.

Overall, The Queen's Sister is a compelling and stylish drama that offers a glimpse into the intriguing world of the British monarchy. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in royal history or the lives of the rich and famous.