REVIEW
With eyes of icy steel and manner fixed and regal, Dench gives a superlative portrayal of England's Queen Victoria in this handsome historical drama about her 20-year relationship with her servant/confidant John Brown. It is 1864, and the Queen is still mourning the death of her beloved Albert. She has stayed to herself for the last five years in the country surrounded by servants and family who all ceremoniously walk gently in her presence. That is until the arrival of Brown (Connolly), Albert's former footman. At first, his loyalty and candor bring him to favor with the queen. But gradually she learns to depend only on him, which sends shock waves around the court and rumors of a romantic nature all over England -- hence the queen's new nickname, Mrs. Brown. Director Madden gives the film a splendid look, effortlessly evoking the time and place of 19th-century court. But it is the performances of Dench and Connolly which really distinguish the film. Dench's marvelous portrayal is a revelation, rich in subtlety and fervor. Connolly is also wondrous, giving passion and life to the queen's loyal servant.