Nothing Like a Dame (2018)

Nothing Like a Dame Poster

BBC Arena's documentary on the Dames of British Theatre and film featuring Maggie Smith, Elieen Atkins, Judi Dench and Joan Plowright on screen together for the first time as they reminisce over a long summer weekend in a house Joan once shared with Sir Laurence Olivier.

Summary
"Nothing Like a Dame" is a 2018 documentary directed by Roger Michell and produced by Sally Angel and Karen Steyn. The movie is regaled as an honest discussion in between 4 renowned dames of the British stage and screen - Dames Eileen Atkins, Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, and Joan Plowright. This docu-feature records an afternoon of unfettered dialogue, heartwarming relationship, abundant memories, and insight into their distinguished professions.

Plot
The director decided to combine four famous dames for a chat at Joan Plowright's nation home, a conversation that appropriately gives a glimpse into their lives, the industry, experiences, and timeless memories. These powerful starlets are paired with their wit, wisdom, and intimate anecdotes about their remarkable professions covering several decades. The movie continues as a casual afternoon meeting comprising delightful exchanges, topics about their individual lives and the market, old photos, and archived footage highlighting their stunning journey.

Styles and Opinions
"Nothing Like a Dame" extracts the powerful friendship in between these ladies, as they share insights about their inspirations, challenges, and age-related aspects affecting their lives and functions. The film holds testimony to the trailblazing impact these dames have left on theatre and cinema, concurrently dealing with the pressure of preserving their renowned status while aging gracefully in the market. The dames express candid views on age and acting, varying from Judi denying the allegations of slowing down at 80+ years, to Maggie's amusing note on the cracks that appear when one is old and well-known.

Individual Anecdotes and Humor
Throughout the movie, they revisit individual memories of their debut and troubled times in the industry. They talk about working with renowned directors and actors and their struggles with insecurity and stage scare. Encrusted with humor, the movie gives insight into the field of acting, from establishing characters to managing criticism. For example, the anecdote of a dubious heckler accosting Dame Eileen Atkins remains among the film's funniest minutes.

Reception and Critiques
"Nothing Like a Dame" received favorable evaluations from critics with its raw representation and glimpse into the lives of these distinguished actresses off camera. The high-praised camaraderie, amusing discussions, and relatable problems included a sense of familiarity to the movie which resonated well with the audience. Nevertheless, some critics pointed out that the documentary lacked depth, avoiding essential subjects, and missed an opportunity to delve much deeper into the working lives and obstacles of these distinguished starlets.

Conclusion
To summarize, "Nothing Like a Dame" is a warm, table talk between 4 renowned actresses who have controlled the world of British cinema and stage for a number of decades. Although the movie might not satiate the hardcore enthusiasts seeking extensive insights into their professions, it offers a heartwarming glimpse into their lives beyond the cameral lens. It's a celebration of their iconic status, the relationship they share, and the vivid anecdotes from their remarkable careers.

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