The Young Victoria: A Royal Treat

The Young Victoria’s screenwriter, Julian Fellowes, stated “I had become aware, as quite a young man, of the extraordinary, but largely unknown, contrast between the popular image of the famous Queen, old and plump, always dressed in black, always frowning, and the reality of the young woman who succeeded her uncle on the Throne of England.” This superb movie, with its incredible acting, portrays the remarkable story of Victoria’s youth and her early days as Queen. We learn she was a passionate young woman who loved music, dancing, and opera and survived a nightmarish childhood. It is truly one of the best films I have seen all year.

The beginning of the film depicts the year before Victoria (Emily Blunt) was crowned Queen of England. According to Victoria, “even a palace can be a prison.” She was sheltered and controlled by her mother, the Duchess of Kent (Miranda Richardson), and her mother’s attendant, Sir John Conroy (Mark Strong). Secluded in her palace with Dash, her cute dog and only friend, Victoria abided by many ridiculous rules such as not walking down the stairs by herself and sleeping in the same bedroom as her mother. Sir John and her mother constantly tried to force Victoria to sign a regency order, which would have allowed them to rule in her place. Victoria bravely and continuously refused to sign a regency order.

Her uncle William, the King of England (Jim Broadbent), who was in poor health, adored his niece. He fought to live past her 18^th birthday so she could become Queen and be free of her mother. Victoria’s other uncle, King Leopold of Belgium (Thomas Kretschmann), chose Prince Albert of Germany (Rupert Friend) for Victoria to marry. During the year prior to her coronation, her relationship with Prince Albert began to flourish.  The two understood each other and what it is like to be used as “chess pieces” for others ambition. Also, you witness the instant attraction and connection between them.

King William passed away after her eighteenth birthday and Victoria was crowned Queen on June 28, 1838 (I felt like cheering for her; she survived!). To her council she stated, “I am young but I am willing to learn. I am willing to devote my life to my country and people.” Early in her rule, Victoria leaned on Lord Melbourne (Paul Bettany), the Prime Minister, for advice and support, although he appeared to take advantage of her loyalty to push his political agenda. Albert and Victoria grew closer through their letters and fell head over heels in love with each other. The rest of the movie follows the beginning of their marriage and an event that balance to their relationship and brings Albert and Victoria much closer.

The acting in The Young Victoria was excellent. Emily Blunt and Rupert Friend made the movie! They had great chemistry and were perfect for the roles. Blunt really brought Victoria to life and deserves the Golden Globe nomination she received for her performance. The extremely handsome Rupert Friend complimented Blunt very well in his role. The supporting cast was also very strong, especially Miranda Richardson, Mark Strong and Jim Broadbent! Richardson and Strong did a great job as the characters you strongly disliked for the horrible way they treated Victoria.

In the film, the attention to detail was also brilliant. The clothing, palaces, gardens and jewelry were exquisite!

This was a wonderful way to learn about European history and Queen Victoria, the longest reigning monarch in British history. If you enjoy historical movies or would just like to see “one of the greatest, and truest love stories in history” then The Young Victoria is a must see!