Boasting an impressive cast of British talent, The Young Victoria presents a somewhat fractured view of what the young queen’s life was like as a secluded young lady being groomed for her eventual role in the public eye.
Queen Victoria in the Early Years
In her early years, Victoria (Emily Blunt) had restrictions on the books she could read and the company she could keep, making her a virtual prisoner inside a palace. This singular existence away from other school children and common people ensured that when she became old enough to rule, she would be completely out of touch.
In a screenplay by Julian Fellowes that starts in 1837, Queen Victoria’s early years as an over-protected child set the stage for her eventual ascension to the throne. The film explores her rebellious teenage years, budding romance with her cousin Albert (Rupert Friend), and missteps as the new Queen of England.
The Young Victoria: A Combination of Stories
Her mother, the Duchess of Kent (Miranda Richardson) and her mother’s advisor (Mark Strong) struggle to retain control over her. However, Victoria’s new personal advisor/Prime Minister, Lord Melbourne (Paul Bettany), suavely manipulates the young queen for personal gain. Similarly, her relationship with Albert blossoms against nearly everyone’s wishes, except for Albert who also has plans for her future.
That’s essentially the problem with this otherwise finely crafted film: It’s the story of a rebellious teenager; it’s a sumptuous period piece; it’s a historical/political drama; and it’s a love story. Despite the best intentions of Blunt, Friend, Bettany, and the rest of the exceptional cast, in an attempt to achieve so much, the film spreads itself too thin to fully engage the emotions of the audience.
A Sensual Period Piece
Although viewer emotions may not be engaged, their senses will be. Director of photography Hagen Bogdanski captures every sparkling nuance of the costumes, jewelry, and facial expressions with tight close ups, and likewise provides sweeping shots of the opulent dwellings and their gardens. This visually appealing film (shot in part at Blenheim Palace, Belvoir Castle, Ditchley, Lancaster House, and Arundel Castle) transports the audience back to a vastly different time.
The music, which Victoria and Albert discuss on occasion, adds to the sensuality of the film. Works by Frederic Handel, Vincenzo Belllini, Henry Purcell, Johann Strauss, Franz Schubert, Antonin Dvorak, and others provide a lovely soundtrack that also serves as ear candy when the story itself turns sour.
The Young Victoria
- This historical drama explores Queen Victoria’s ascension to the throne and her romance with Prince Albert.
- Starring Emily Blunt, Rupert Friend, Paul Bettany, Miranda Richardson, Jim Broadbent, Thomas Kretschmann, Mark Strong, Jesper Christensen, Harriet Walter, Jeannette Hain
- Director: Jean-Marc Vallee
- Writer: Julian Fellowes
- Run Time: 100 minutes
- Rating: PG (for some mild sensuality, a scene of violence, and brief incidental language and smoking)
- 3/5 – Good
To see a trailer for The Young Victoria, visit the official website.
Leslie C. Halpern - Leslie C. Halpern, Romantic Films/Comedies Topic Editor, authored Passionate About Their Work, Reel Romance, & Dreams on Film.
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