Mary Queen of Scots trailer: Margot Robbie goes heavy on make-up in royal battle with Saoirse Ronan

Margot Robbie is unrecognisable as she is transformed into Elizabeth I for new movie Mary, Queen Of Scots.

The title role is played by Saoirse Ronan, who is also given a dramatic makeover for the film, which is directed by Josie Rourke.

Robbie and Ronan, who were both nominated for best actress at this year’s Oscars, are at odds in the period piece centred on the rivalry between Mary Stuart and Elizabeth I in the 16th century.

Robbie recently revealed the heavy make-up she had to wear for the role left her feeling “isolated”, saying that “it was uncomfortable for [the crew]” to look at her.

The images were taken from a new trailer for the movie, which is due for release in the UK in January.

It is the first film to be directed by Rourke, who will next year step down as artistic director of the Donmar Warehouse in London after eight years in the role.

The movie also stars David Tennant, Guy Pearce, Jack Lowden, Joe Alwyn, Gemma Chan, Martin Compston, Brendan Coyle, Ian Hart and Adrian Lester.