VICTORIA AND ABDUL
Directed by Stephens Frear
Starring Judi Dench and Ali Fazal
Screenplay by Lee Hall
Based on the book by Shrabani Basu
In this true story (Mostly, the script in the film says) about the strange and lovely relationship between Queen Victoria and a humble servant from India Abdul Karim.
Oh boy was I disappointed. The film went in totally the wrong direction. What looks like a wonderful spotlight of two individuals from different backgrounds and different social statuses, ends up spotlighting waaaay too much on the reactions to their friendships. As you are watching the film you really feel it, when the two leads are not together the film crumbles. Which means we have to spotlight the failure of the screenwriter Hall and Director Frear. It is on them.
I am not saying the film is one big failure, there is a lot of good here starting with Oscar worthy performances by Dench and Fazil. Two actors from different cultures and age have just amazing chemistry. We already know how good of an actress Dench is, but Fazil is a find!! Charming and saying so much without saying a word. Sad that the screenwriter did no believe in the strength of the actors.
Now, the story is not a complete bust, there is a fair amount of humor and love mixed in with all the negatives that the director elected to highlight.
2 1/2 stars out of 5 for Victoria And Abdul. A beautiful relationship. It is worth a look when it comes out to home viewing.
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