Mary Queen of Scots trailer: Saoirse Ronan and Margot Robbie face off in epic historical drama

Mary Queen of Scots and Queen Elizabeth I of England's turbulent relationship altered the course of history

Two of the most formidable women in Britain's past saw their lives become brutally intertwined in the late 16th century – their actions would change history.

Mary Queen of Scots, directed by Josie Rourke, will explore the turbulent relationship between Mary Stuart and her cousin, Elizabeth I of England.

Queen of France at 16 and widowed at 18, Mary defied pressures to remarry and instead returned to her native Scotland to reclaim her rightful throne, which put in her in direct conflict with Elizabeth as many Catholics believed Mary had a claim to the throne of England.

And, when Mary fled to England seeking Elizabeth's help when she was ejected from the Scottish throne, Elizabeth treated her cousin with caution and suspicion. Mary soon became a direct threat to Elizabeth's sovereignty, and their tussle for power reached a breaking point.

Saoirse Ronan stars as Mary, across Margot Robbie as Elizabeth; the film also features Joe Alwyn, Gemma Chan, James McArdle, David Tennant, and Guy Pearce.

Mary Queen of Scots is released in UK cinemas 18 January 2019