Film Overview"Victoria & Abdul" is a 2017 British biographical drama directed by Stephen Frears, based upon the book by Shrabani Basu. The film stars Judi Dench as Queen Victoria and Ali Fazal as Abdul Karim. The movie explores the special and controversial relationship in between Queen Victoria, the iconic emperor of the United Kingdom, and Abdul Karim, a young clerk from India.
Plot SummarySet at the height of Queen Victoria's reign, the movie begins with Abdul Karim being chosen to present a ritualistic coin to the Queen during her Golden Jubilee celebrations. He captures the Queen's attention when he makes eye contact during the discussion, a breach of royal protocol. Charmed by his simpleness and sincerity, the Queen chose to keep him as her Munshi (teacher) and spiritual adviser.
As time passes, Abdul influences the Queen in several ways, consisting of expanding her understanding of the colonies under her rule by teaching her the Urdu language and sharing aspects of his culture. This significant but unanticipated friendship makes her outlook more beneficial towards these nests.
Unrest in the CourtNevertheless, this uncommonly close friendship does not sit well with members of the Queen's court, including her boy Bertie (the future King Edward VII), and Dr. Reid. They the Queen's close relationship with a servant of the so-called 'lower stature.' The cultural and racial prejudices of the age ended up being apparent when they connive to destroy the relationship between the Queen and Abdul, however Victoria staunchly stands up to them, protecting Abdul and his position in her court.
Climax and FinaleThe seriousness of their discontent caps when the family falsely accuses Abdul of stealing and infecting the Queen with a lethal disease, leading to an examination into Abdul's background in India. Even then, the Queen does not fluctuate in her assistance for Abdul, and their bond deepens. When Queen Victoria finds their computing, she chastises them throughout a heated confrontation.
The film concludes on a poignant note as Queen Victoria dies, and Abdul is sent back to India after her death. In spite of his go back to India, Abdul continues to remember and appreciate Victoria's memories.
Film ReceptionThe film sparked debate upon release, criticized for oversimplifying royal history and its portrayal of the British Empire, while others praised Dench's efficiency, the extravagant duration setting, and the gentle humanization of a deeply problematic leader. Despite the blended actions, the film ended up being a ticket office success and got different award nominations.
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