ALLAN HUNTER at the Movies

BRITISH audiences have a never-ending fascination with films that capture the private lives of public figures. When that figure is a member of the Royal family, the mixture is even more irresistible.

The Young Victoria is a genteel but very engaging costume drama charting all the pressures on a woman who ascended to the throne when she was still a teenager. It is a tale of power and responsibility but also a love story as it tells of her growing affection for Prince Albert.

Victoria (Emily Blunt) was the niece of King William IV (Jim Broadbent) and the first in line to succeed him. The King’s failing health and Victoria’s youth made her easy prey for all kinds of opportunistic schemers, even her mother The Duchess Of Kent (Miranda Richardson), who sought to have herself declared regent.

A variety of politicians all sought to win the favour of Victoria and shape her ideas about the country. The velvety charm of the wily Lord Melbourne (Paul Bettany) certainly won him favour at the court even if he only had his own interests at heart.

The film is a fascinating account of political intrigue at home and abroad, but finds its emotional core in the relationship between Victoria and Prince Albert (Rupert Friend) of Saxe-Coburg and Goethe. A marriage to Albert is considered good for Britain but the miracle is the true love that these soulmates were to find.

The Young Victoria is short on juicy scandal and strong on charm and delicacy, which makes it a breath of fresh air. Emily Blunt paints Victoria as an endearing mixture of stubborn determination and naivety, whilst Friend brings a light touch to the ardent Albert.

Combine that with scene-stealing turns from old pros like Jim Broadbent and Paul Bettany, plus all the pomp and finery of a classy costume drama, and it adds up to a very appealing proposition.

Nationwide release

Director: Jean-Marc Vallee
Cast: Emily Blunt, Rupert Friend, Paul Bettany, Miranda Richardson, Mark Strong, Jim Broadbent, Harriet Walter.
Screenwriters: Julian Fellowes
Certificate: PG
Running time: 104 mins
Country: UK
Year: 2009

© Allan Hunter, 2009