January 30, 2013 at 5:54 p.m.
At the movies
Movie review: The Young Victoria ****
The Young Victoria ****
Stars: Emily Blunt, Rupert Friend, Mark Strong
Director: Jean-Marc Valléen
Rated: PG
Showing: Neptune Theatre. Daily at 7pm
Runtime: 105 minutes
Drama/history/romance
This beautifully shot period drama details the early years of England's Queen Victoria.
Most depictions of the monarch, who ruled for almost 64 years from 1837 to 1901, focus on her later years but this looks at her ascension to the throne and courtship with her beloved husband Albert - although the movie takes some liberties with historical fact.
It begins as 17-year-old Victoria (Emily Blunt) learns she is in line to the throne and is pressured by her mother, the Duchess of Kent (Miranda Richardson), and her devious aide Sir John Conroy (Mark Strong) to sign papers declaring them regents until she is older.
She refuses and becomes queen after her 18th birthday - and quickly has to learn to handle her court, government and public.
The story also focuses on her courtship with future husband Albert (Rupert Friend). Their blossoming romance is beautifully developed and believable, with the leads boasting a sparkling chemistry.
Blunt is charming as Victoria and her monarch is witty, sweet and endearing.
The rest of the cast also give good performances and the cinematography is flawless, while the stunning art direction, costuming and make-up all won Oscar nominations.
Watch if you liked: Mrs. Brown, Elizabeth.
For more information about film times, call 292-7296.[[In-content Ad]]
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