Some of the most stunning performances in film come from powerful women – and sometimes, that statement can be taken quite literally. The portrayal of royalty in films often becomes so significant because the appearances of different figures become extremely visually appealing to audiences, thanks to period costumes and billowing fabrics. The personalities of these individuals are typically just as beguiling, whether they reign with cruelty or compassion. The perspective of a woman in these circumstances can often build upon the tension of the era that she lived in, giving audiences more insight into her life.
While many of these most recognizable examples follow creative interpretations of real people from throughout history, many others have become just as recognizable through the world of fiction. Now, everyone bow down to the best portrayals of queens in movies, ranked.
6Susan Sarandon - Enchanted (2007)
Enchantedis a fun and fantastical adventure that combines a fairytale land with the brash realism of New York City. The story recently received a sequel,Disenchanted, in 2022. In the first installment, Queen Narissa (played bySusan Sarandon) is Giselle’s evil stepmother, whose outfits are as dark and dazzling as her unique voice. Her steely-cold power as a ruler appears even more powerful in live-action than her original animated appearance, as the characters make their way from Andalasia into modern-day America. Narissa’s thirst for complete control sees her trail Giselle all the way to a real-world ball where she transforms into a shimmering dragon.
5Judi Dench - Victoria & Abdul (2017)
Victoria and Abdultakes a look at England’s Queen Victoria (Judi Dench) and her companionship with Abdul Karim (Ali Fazal). The two become friends after Abdul is selected to travel from India to be present at her Golden Jubilee, and remains in her country for 14 years. Throughout the film, Victoria trades in her apathetic ways for a more positive perspective, thanks to Abdul. While several critical approaches appear to like the film,Variety arguesthat the film “appears to be specifically nostalgic for the relationship between England and India under the British empire” whileThe Guardian writes, “It’s only Dench’s shrewd, affecting performance that keeps this sorry affair on its feet.”
4Saoirse Ronan - Mary Queen of Scots (2018)
Mary Queen of Scotsbrings viewers into an emotional gauntlet to witness double trouble among two cousins. Saoirse Ronan plays Mary Stuart, who seeks out Queen Elizabeth I (portrayed by Margot Robbie) so she can reign over Scotland instead. With the performances of two authoritative women to consider, the desperation within their struggles and their individual hungers are impossible to ignore. Ronan’s Mary brings the traumatic backstory of her life before tragedy, forcing her to mature more deeply. Elizabeth’s single life shelters her from many harsh realities until it’s too late, and Robbie portrays that shift well.
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3Angela Bassett - Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2021)
AfterBlack Panther’s incredible success,Black Panther: Wakanda Forevercontinued on the story of the titular hero and the thriving empire of Wakanda despite the tragic passing of Chadwick Boseman. As T’Challa’s mother, Queen Ramonda,Angela Bassettreceived a2023 Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The utter strength that shines through Ramonda is incredible. As a parent grieving her son,The New York Timesalso cites her character development through “defending Wakanda’s sovereignty on the world stage while trying to protect her ambitious daughter, Shuri.” This portrayal proves Bassett’s multifaceted talent and the grace that the actress and her character share.
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2Julie Andrews - The Princess Diaries (2000)
The Princess Diariesis an essential inclusion among the greatest 2000s comedies. Its hysterical humor, heartwarming high school shenanigans, and portrayal of royal growing pains remain generation-defining even two decades after its heyday. Queen Clarisse Renaldi is the cornerstone of Genovian society in both films, played by the outstandingJulie Andrews. With a motherly sense of majesty, she offers a gracious glance towards everyone she encounters. Her granddaughter Princess Mia’s growth from an awkward teen into a young royal budding with promise allows Clarisse the chance to learn more about the average American experience, showing how the two have a lot they can teach one another. Unfortunately, Andrewsmay not come backfor a third movie in the series.
1Kirsten Dunst - Marie Antoinette (2006)
As the most visually engrossing entry to grace this list,Marie Antoinetteis Sofia Coppola’s imagining of the controversial Queen of France’s rise to power during her adolescence.Kirsten Dunstplays the young monarch, who both enters a marriage with Louis XVI and assumes the throne as a teenager. Her turn as Marie is essentially a coming of age story set back in Versailles, eventually encapsulating in the people of France beginning to revolt. The film emphasizes the character’s creative and stark personality. As astounding as her story is from beginning to end, this film transforms it with the power of powdered wigs and adds some startling but snazzy musical backing.
