Victoria & Abdul is a (mostly) true story about the unusual friendship of Queen Victoria of England, and an Indian servant named Abdul, who becomes her teacher. It’s a good flick for the big screen, it captures the grandeur of places like Windsor Castle and the Taj Mahal.
The story is set at the turn of the century when India is part of the British Empire. The plot gives us a look at English pomp and pretentiousness first hand. Even the aging Queen admits that all the ridiculous celebrations are killing her. From bowel movements to boredom, Judy Dench gives us an inside look at what it’s like to be at the top of a monarchy.
Unlike other movies that focus on body counts or comic book superheros, Victoria & Abdul is mostly fun and good entertainment. Cathryn rates it an 8 and I a 7 out of 10.