Margot Robbie is unrecognisable in first 'Mary, Queen of Scots' trailer

Margot Robbie as Queen Elizabeth I in <i>Mary, Queen of Scots</i> (Universal)
Margot Robbie as Queen Elizabeth I in Mary, Queen of Scots (Universal)

The first trailer for Universal Pictures’ much anticipated Mary, Queen of Scots has arrived, and it already looks like an Oscar contender.

Starring Saoirse Ronan in the title role, this new historical epic hits cinemas in January 2019.

However, it’s Margot Robbie as Queen Elizabeth I that really captures the attention in this first look footage, with the Australian actress appearing virtually unrecognisable as the Virgin Queen.

Watch the first full trailer below.

In one scene, the 28-year-old actress who shot to fame in The Wolf of Wall Street, removes her wig to reveal the balding head of the monarch who was Queen of England and Ireland from 1558 until her death in 1603.

Here’s the full synopsis: Mary, Queen of Scots 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 I.

Margot Robbie in <i>Mary, Queen of Scots</i> (Universal)
Margot Robbie in Mary, Queen of Scots (Universal)

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.

Along with with first look trailer, there are also two new character posters showcasing the film’s A-list talent.

Saoirse Ronan as Mary Stuart. (Universal)
Saoirse Ronan as Mary Stuart. (Universal)
Margot Robbie as Elizabeth I. (Universal)
Margot Robbie as Elizabeth I. (Universal)

Saoirse Ronan and Margot Robbie are joined by Jack Lowden, Joe Alwyn, Gemma Chan, Martin Compston, Ismael Cordova, Brendan Coyle, Ian Hart, Adrian Lester, James McArdle, with David Tennant, and Guy Pearce in the star-studded historical epic.

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