First Look: Saoirse Ronan Is ‘Mary, Queen Of Scots’

Saoirse Ronan has a busy schedule ahead. She’s gearing up to hit the fall festival circuit to support “Lady Bird” and “On Chesil Beach,” and next up she’s getting the royal treatment leading “Mary, Queen Of Scots.”

Production has started on the drama which is directed by Josie Rourke, written by Beau Willimon (“House Of Cards“) and co-stars Margot Robbie. The film explores the turbulent life of the charismatic Mary Stuart. Queen of France at 16 and widowed at 18, Mary defies pressure to remarry. Instead, she returns to her native Scotland to reclaim her rightful throne. But Scotland and England fall under the rule of the compelling Elizabeth 1. Each young Queen beholds her “sister” in fear and fascination. Rivals in power and in love, and female regents in a masculine world, the two must decide how to play the game of marriage versus independence. Determined to rule as much more than a figurehead, Mary asserts her claim to the English throne, threatening Elizabeth’s sovereignty. Betrayal, rebellion, and conspiracies within each court imperil both thrones – and change the course of history.

Sounds like this could be a cut above your usual period drama fare. One to keep an eye out for next year from Focus Features.