Emily Blunt, Rupert Friend, Paul Bettany, Miranda Richardson, Jim Broadbent, Harriet Walter, Princess Beatrice

How many of us are looking for a love story to get lost in during these cold, frigid days of winter? Look no further, for "The Young Victoria" is a wonderful love story. Ordinarily stories involving historical events and leaders of the English monarch tend to be stuffy — beautifully orchestrated with period clothing — yet leaving the audience with a mild appreciation of life as royalty and very little else. In "The Young Victoria" we have romance, manipulation, conspiracy, and leading ladies and men that make us truly interested in the reign of Queen Victoria in the late 1800s.

The young Victoria (Emily Blunt) receives the monarchy with very little political experience or worldly exposure. Her mother, the Duchess of Kent (Miranda Richardson), is presented as weak and willing to be controlled by the aspirations of Sir John Conroy (Mark Strong). So even at a very young age, Victoria is treated as a vested treasure instead of a loved child because she will someday become Queen.

What makes this film so intriguing is the period of Victoria's growth shown from a young teen to a young woman. She becomes a wife to Prince Albert (Rupert Friend), a mother to her beloved children, and most importantly a Queen to England.

What gives this movie its support is the fine casting of British actors such as Paul Bettany (Lord Melbourne), Miranda Richardson and Jim Broadbent (King William).

Finely detailed costuming and authentic English settings make viewers feel as if they are privy to this monarchy. A fine-tuned screenplay that affords drama and romance makes this film one lesson in history that anyone could enjoy.

Chic Stars: * * * *

Jan's Movie Rating System:

* * * * * — Top-notch entertainment

* * * * — Compelling, heartwarming, thrilling, comical

* * * — The a) story b) actors c) special effects saved/made this movie.

* * — If you are bored, watch it or wait for DVD

* — Don't bother. Too morose, too violent, too blase, an enigma.

Jan James Stetter
		About the author:
		Jan James Stetter is the "Media Maven" for Cincy Chic. A Cincinnati native, Jan resides in the side of town that bore LaRosa’s pizzas and Skyline chili. Stetter is a discerning film critic letting readers know what is hot and what is not at the box office. She welcomes input and feedback from her audience, so e-mail her at jstetter@cincychic.com.
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Last update: 22-02-2010 06:41

Published in : Magazine Items, Social