Director Stephen Frears (The Queen) was instead accompanied by Arterton's co-stars Dominic Cooper and Tamsin Greig.

BBC: Gemma Arterton misses Cannes film premiere

The new Stephen Frears film considers the deadlock, both grieving and comical, that followed the death of the Princess of Wales in 1997.

NEWYORKER: The Queen

Director Stephen Frears, Dame Helen and screenwriter Peter Morgan are all guaranteed nominations, while the film will take one of the best picture slots.

BBC: NEWS | Entertainment | Oscars panel: Scott Williams

As well as Britten, other famous names in the arts world to have studied at Gresham's include Bafta-winning actress Olivia Coleman and film director Stephen Frears.

BBC: Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears

Clint will get his nomination, while Stephen Frears, Martin Scorsese, Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu and maybe even Mel Gibson or Emilio Estevez should be in the running.

BBC: NEWS | Entertainment | Oscars panel: Sarah Griffin

Directed by Stephen Frears (Prick Up Your Ears).

NPR: Hollywood Winds Down 2005 with Gay-Themed Pics

With Stephen Frears directing, Clooney proposed a remake.

BBC: Why TV drama is going live

From director Stephen Frears, who has given us everything from The Grifters to High Fidelity, Helen Mirren stars as the modern Queen Elizabeth trying to deal with the tragic death of Princess Diana back in 1997.

NPR: Summary Judgment: 'The Departed,' 'Employee of the Month,' 'The Queen'