Victoria & Abdul

Victoria & Abdul is an absorbing royal drama from 2017 that engages viewers with its astounding performances, beautiful costumes, and narratively rich subject matter. The film is based on the real-life relationship between Queen Victoria of England and Abdul Karim, her Indian servant who becomes a close friend and personal confidante. The movie is a delightful exploration of an unlikely friendship that defies both race and class constraints. Directed by Stephen Frears and written by Lee Hall, the film features a star-studded cast led by Judi Dench as Queen Victoria and Ali Fazal as Abdul Karim. Tim Pigott-Smith supports them with an excellent performance as Sir Henry Ponsonby, the Queen's personal secretary.

The plot unfolds in the twilight years of Queen Victoria's reign, drawing on the subtleties of the Queen's loneliness and boredom out of the responsibilities of her sovereign duties. Just as life seems to be losing its allure for the Queen, she meets Abdul Karim, a young Indian clerk who has been chosen to present a ceremonial medal to her Highness. A single meeting blossoms into an unusual companionship that begins to stir up controversy within the royal household.

Judi Dench's portrait of Queen Victoria is astonishing. She scales the impressive range of reluctant queen to a curious woman who seeks her own happiness amidst the burden of her crown with ease. Her portrayal is nothing short of splendid, and she resurrects her fascinating character of the lonely queen which we might recall from her previous royal portrayal in Mrs. Brown (1997).

Lee Hall's screenplay adroitly builds a narrative that explores both the personal and the political. Cinematic attention is given to the grand backdrop of the Queen’s court, contrasting its opulence with the simplicity of Abdul's normal life. An intelligent balance is maintained between comedy, drama, and political obstacles, allowing the viewers to invest emotionally in the story.

Alongside Dench, Ali Fazal as Abdul Karim gives a remarkable performance. Simple, charming, and sincere, his Abdul is a man who manages to cross cultural, geographical, and social barriers to form an intimate bond with one of the most powerful women of the era. Fazal’s compelling performance convincingly articulates how his character becomes the Queen's "Munshi" or teacher, instructing her in Urdu and Indian culture.

Tim Pigott-Smith's portrayal of Sir Henry Ponsonby is commendable as well, representing the fears and discontent of the royal household and empire against Victoria's friendship with Abdul. The supporting cast including Eddie Izzard as Bertie, the Prince of Wales, and Adeel Akhtar as Abdul's disgruntled companion Mohammed, enhance the narrative with their distinctive performances.

The production quality of Victoria & Abdul is grippingly immersive. The royal palaces, lush gardens, and opulent costumes conjure a vivid atmosphere. The cinematography is simply stunning and captures both the grandeur of the royal court and the contrasting simplicity of India. The original score underpins the movie's contrasting moods of amusement, tension, and poignant emotion.

Victoria & Abdul is an intriguing historical piece that provides insight into an untold segment of British history. Its delightful narrative and profound performances make it a worthwhile watch for those who appreciate British historical dramas. At times it may sugarcoat the complexities of the British Empire but, at heart, it is a tale of a deep and unusual friendship amidst the rigid structures of the Victorian era. The relationship between Queen Victoria and Abdul Karim challenges social and racial norms, offering a unique perspective on the inherent joys and difficulties of cross-cultural friendship.