Emily Blunt plays Victoria with grace, dignity, and a touch of self-aware humor. She pushes against the confines of her station, especially with her mother and Sir John Conroy (Mark Strong; "Sherlock Holmes") who seek to bully her into signing over her royal rights before ascending to the crown. Her early life is a mix of silly, overprotective rules and political subterfuge from King Leopold in Belgium to the Prime Minister's office to within her own household. Her survival through trial and error is a testament to her spirit and future longevity. The romantic exchanges with Albert are a welcome release to the more serious moments in the film.
The supporting cast ably compliments the performance of Blunt with their own well established idiosyncrasies. Paul Bettany as Lord Melbourne and Strong particularly shine as two men using different means to ultimately control the crown. But Victoria is not so easily overpowered. The melancholy final act proves the perfect crescendo to a well orchestrated film. The director, Jean-Marc Vallee, creates quite a splash with this easy-to-watch period drama proving, perhaps, that he is ready for the Hollywood big-time.
Rated PG for some mild sensuality, a scene of violence, and brief incidental language and smoking.
