In 1561, Mary has returned home to rule Scotland after the death of her first husband, the King of France. With a claim to the English throne, she writes to her cousin Elizabeth I who is worried about being overthrown by Mary to list her demands. But with the two unable to reach an agreement, uncertainty persists throughout the British lands, with war raging and alliances being forged and broken. Despite being put under enormous pressure by her advisors and religious leaders, Mary turns down a suggested match and instead chooses to marry Henry Stuart, a decision which will have fateful consequences for all, especially after she finds him in bed with her close male friend. With a script from House of Cards creator Beau Willimon, Mary Queen of Scots is an elegant, slick and accessible exploration of a crucial period in British history, exploring topical themes around gender roles and sexuality.