Queenby Anonymous

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February 22, 2007: Revisiting THE QUEEN increases the power of the film's subtle portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II by Helen Mirren, further informs the viewer of the fine quality of performance by Michael Sheen as Tony Blair and Helen McCrory as his wife Cherie, and allows an even deeper appreciation for the fine musical score by the always dependable Alexandre Desplat. Desplat captures the atmosphere of the year 1997 when Princess Diana's death shook the world and altered the history of the royal family. His music is aptly suitable for the stuffy feeling of Balmoral Castle while his liquid themes underline the beauty of Scotland, the tension within the castle, and the responses of the people. And while Desplat's score stands solidly on its own with the many themes included on this CD, he also has the sensitivity to close the recording with the hauntingly beautiful singing by soprano Lynne Dawson and the BBC Symphony Chorus in the Verdi Requiem movement, 'Libera me'. It is as well performed as any version on record and is a meltingly lyrical and somber way to conclude the CD. A very fine Soundtrack to add to anyone's collection. Grady Harp