“The Young Victoria” is a time-period movie that is both entertaining and historically accurate.
“The Young Victoria,” a recently released movie, reminds me of every single period piece ever made: beautiful scenery, gorgeous people, luscious clothing and extravagance galore.
To capture the time period right, everything must be at the peak of its beauty — this is how it was done in earlier centuries, with royalty lavishing in all kinds of top-quality fabrics, precious metals, grand palaces and such. Luckily for “The Young Victoria,” all the background extravagance only adds to the movie instead of detracts.
What “The Young Victoria” does is show how Queen Victoria longed more for her freedom and love than she did for the crown. She went through with the coronation in part to defy her mother, and in part because it was her duty.
The movie follows Victoria (played by Emily Blunt) from before her coronation and during the first few years of her life as queen. Victoria longs for independence and admiration from the people. The film focuses on the romance between Victoria and Prince Albert (Rupert Friend), constantly being brought up by correspondence between the two. It’s a lovely relationship, not too sweet, but endearing enough.
Throughout the movie, there is a good balance of politics and love, the two things that dominated Victoria’s life. It is an enjoyable, whimsical movie and I recommend it for anyone who loves period piece movies or British history.
I personally think Emily Blunt is fantastic in her role. She brings emotion and grace to the character. Her greatest scenes are when she shows the most emotion, be it on the verge of tears or angrily yelling at someone. Young women can relate to Queen Victoria because Blunt portrays her passion and loneliness very well.
I have never seen Rupert Friend on the screen before, but I think he’s got potential. He has a cute face and a strong presence. I sincerely hope he isn’t typecast as 19th century love interests.
Paul Bettany, from “A Knight’s Tale” and “Wimbledon, takes on a more serious role as Lord Melbourne, Queen Victoria’s advisor. He is a self-assured and witty character who seems almost positive of his influence over the young queen. His relationship with her is questionable at first, but the audience sees that he is merely just a friend, sometimes using Victoria for his own gain.
Overall, the movie is pleasant. A feast for the eyes with impressive writing and superb acting, “The Young Victoria” serves as a glimpse into the early life of a strong-willed and passionate royal.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
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