Unlike many films with Princess Diana as the main subject, "The Queen" does not feature an actress that portrays the late princess but focuses on the events after her death. Following the fatal car accident, Great Britain is in a state of grief and mourning over Diana's death. Prime Minister Tony Blair (Michael Sheen) issues a statement to address the people and honor her, while Queen Elizabeth (Helen Mirren) remains silent on the matter. The remainder of the film follows Blair's attempts to push the Queen to offer support to the public and pay homage to a figure so beloved by the people. For her stern yet intimate portrayal of Queen Elizabeth, Mirren won both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for best actress.
