Margaret picks up the story in 1990, and times had clearly changed again. Mrs. Thatcher is seen a Cold War relic, as the world is moving forward with the dissolution of the Soviet Union. She is also depicted as the leader of the rich and powerful, intent on maintaining their position. When challenged by Michael Heseltine for leadership of the party, Thatcher won - but by a small enough margin to force a second election. After consultations with various advisors and the like, and even the Queen, Margaret Thatcher decided to resign from 10 Downing Street. Rather than leave politics altogether, Thatcher served two years in her old role of MP of Finchley. In 1992 she retired from government service for good, and joined the private sector.
The Rise And Fall Of Margaret Thatcher is an excellent production, which benefits greatly from the decision to tell the story in three separate films. The actresses who portray the Prime Minister do a superb job of capturing her at each stage of her life. For example, Andrea Riseborough captures the ambitious, flirtatious, and even sexy former Margaret Richards in The Long Walk To Finchley.
Patricia Hodge perfectly embodies the Iron Lady phase of Thatcher’s career in The Falklands Play. There is not a trace of self doubt in the Prime Minister at this point, as Hodge methodically renders her. As Mrs. Thatcher in Margaret, Lindsey Duncan has perhaps the most difficult role. With her glory years clearly over, the former Iron Lady has an enormous amount of English pride to swallow. Duncan brings a bittersweet toughness to Thatcher, who knows exactly what is going on, yet dons a brave face to get through it.
There is no question that Margaret Thatcher was a polarizing figure in British politics, and that she will not soon be forgotten. The Rise And Fall Of Margret Thatcher is an even-handed portrayal of this most intriguing Iron Lady.
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