Archived Period Drama Reviews

These are a select number of our archived period dramas from previous contributors, preserved here in our Silver Petticoat Archive for longtime fans and new visitors.

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PERIOD DRAMA REVIEW SNIPPETS

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The Adventures of Captain Alatriste: A Solid Adaptation of the Best-Selling Novel

Review by Catherine:

The Adventures of Captain Alatriste tells the story of a former soldier, Diego Alatriste. As a swordsman for hire, Alatriste finds himself in the middle of betrayals, political intrigue, and romance. Set against the backdrop of the Spanish Golden Age, The Adventures of Captain Alatriste is a solid adaptation of the international novel, Las aventuras del capitán Alatriste.

Overall, The Adventures of Captain Alatriste was a solid adaptation. It tackles a number of storylines and ties them together across 18 episodes. From the Spanish Inquisition to personal love lives, The Adventures of Captain Alatriste is worth watching. Perhaps not to binge, but definitely worth a peek. Oh, and before you ask….No, it’s absolutely nothing like the books. The books are far better!

Amy Foster – Swept from the Sea

Review by Elinor:

Amy Foster – Swept from the Sea is a story about isolation and love despite adversity. The film is based on a short story by Joseph Conrad of the same name and is directed by Beeban Kidron. It stars Vincent Perez and Rachel Weisz as the title character. Set in nineteenth-century Cornwall, a hard and rough place, whose people are likewise ungenerous and superstitious.

At its core, this is a story about the resilience of the human heart.  Summing up, this film will appeal to anyone who has ever felt different and been made to feel that difference. It has a well-acted and beautiful love story, a well-developed cast of side characters and a wonderful soundtrack. I thoroughly recommended it.

Angel – A Misunderstood Homage

Review by Elinor:

Angel is a film made in homage to the melodramas of the ’30’s and ’40’s. This is most obvious in the deliberate use of unconvincing screens in the background of outdoor scenes. Despite this being made clear in interviews with director Francois Ozon, many critics took the film at face value. This led to many bad reviews which I think, for the most part, are unfair.

Angel is a capable film that is certainly worth a watch for a period drama enthusiast and fans of old-fashioned melodramatic storytelling. However, it should not be watched for the romance but for a visually pleasing and unusual story.

Arthur and George – An Unusual Mystery With The Author of Sherlock Holmes

Review by Elinor:

Arthur and George is a three episode adaptation of the Julian Barnes novel, a mystery based on real events that took place in Great Wyrley, England. It is an unusual story concerning the author of the infamous Sherlock Holmes books, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

The mystery does come to a satisfying conclusion and the actors do a fine job. With better pacing and a more touching romance, the miniseries could have been really engaging. However, it is an interesting and moderately entertaining story to enjoy on a quiet evening.

Astronaut Wives Club

Review by Rissi:

If you like 60s era period dramas (Call the Midwife) or anything heavy on promoting its female leads, adding this to your summer schedule should be a must. It’s based on a popular novel (of the same name) by Lily Koppel, and takes great strides towards the independence of its female protagonists. While I reserve some judgment until I see where these tangled plots may lead, I can honestly say I loved every second of their breezy, fun premise. If my suspicions are correct, there will be some poignant moments of friendship and strength. Among all the ups and downs these seven women are likely to encounter, they’re going to be pioneers in their rights. Add in some colorful, on-point fashion, and you’ve got a brand-new piece of guilty pleasure summer TV.

Bill Film Review – Shakespearean Fun For The Entire Family

Review by Elizabeth:

I can honestly say that I have not laughed so much at a film for ages as I did watching Bill.  In fact, everyone in the cinema was laughing pretty much from start to finish.  As in Yonderland, the six main actors (Matthew Baynton, Martha Howe-Douglas, Ben Willbond, Simon Farnaby, Laurence Rickard and Jim Howick) play multiple roles, with cameos from Helen McCrory and Damian Lewis.  There are some very funny Shakespearean jokes – and jokes about writing and the theatre – but you don’t need to be familiar with Shakespeare or English history to find it funny.  There’s lots of slapstick and just downright silliness as well.  And I must say, the guys and Martha are looking rather hot in some of the scenes.  (Yes, I’m looking at you, Ben “Philip of Spain” Willbond!)

The Horrible Histories/Yonderland troupe have been compared to Monty Python, due to their multiple role playing and silly humour.  But where the Pythons could be crude and offensive, this troupe stays true to its original audience.  While some of the humour might not be suitable for young children, for kids of junior/middle school age and upwards – together with their parents – it is ideal for a family night out.  

Bitter Harvest (2017) Film Review – Love and Survival During a Genocide

Review by Brittaney:

Yuri and Natalka are childhood sweethearts who have grown up together in a small Ukranian village. They have come of age in a time where the ruling Russian monarchy has been ousted and Communism has become a popular governing concept. It is a chaotic time, particularly as the Ukraine has taken advantage of Russia’s political instability to assert their own claim to national identity and independence…and failed.

Although Bitter Harvest has many faults, this Canadian film introduces a little known historical event to Western audiences. And for that, I can forgive its weaknesses.

The Bostonians – A Lesser-Known Merchant Ivory Production

Review by Elinor:

The Bostonians is an adaptation of the novel by Henry James. Apparently, the book is meant to be a satire of the women’s movement or so my research tells me. However, the film did not present the story this way, taking a more serious tack.

In short, I did not really enjoy The Bostonians though I am sure that there are many who might. There were moments where I was truly engaged but they got a bit lost in the sheer length of it. For those who enjoyed the style of Room with a View or Howard’s End, this may be a film for you, as long as you don’t mind the absence of an enjoyable romance.

Can’t Help Singing Film Review– Falling in Love In Technicolor

Review by Rissi:

Universal had another role for their silver screen darling, Deanna Durbin with Can’t Help Singing, a romantic period film that is somehow like Cinderella’s slipper: a perfect fit. Though this one is a departure from her usual film roles (because it’s set during the California Gold Rush), Can’t Help Singing still suits what the studio wanted to bring to the screen with their songbird, Durbin.

To close, I’ll say this, the songs and whimsical musical numbers make Can’t Help Singing all the more charming. The colors and sense of romanticism perfectly play to this “vintage” era of filmmaking. Those who enjoy classic films with a wholesome story are sure to fall in love with this charmer. And of course, you just might find yourself singing right along with the catchy tunes.

Christopher Robin

Review by Catherine:

On the whole, you will swim (willingly!) in the nostalgia that is Christopher Robin. Ultimately, you’ll walk out of the theater feeling like you just visited with an old friend. With its message of kindness and faith, Christopher Robin is the perfect, family-friendly summer movie.

Close to the Enemy (2016) Review – Acorn TV’s 1940s Scripted Drama

Review by Rissi:

Anyone who likes the BBC drama The Lady Vanishes or Agent Carter will find this one worth looking into. Though darker than some of its peers, the puzzle pieces that fit together make this a curiosity worth discovering. It’s not so much about a present time mystery as it is wondering how the characters are going to react and the result of their reactions. Close to the Enemy is sure to keep us guessing right through its final tense moments!

Cyrano de Bergerac – A Witty Period Drama

Review by Elinor:

Cyrano De Bergerac is a witty, action filled film adaptation of the French play by Edmond Rostand. While there really was a Cyrano De Bergerac, the play only uses aspects of his life in a fictional account. It is notable for being written entirely in rhyming couplets (the English translation does it’s best to do the same without deviating too far from the original text). The play is also known for having the second most famous balcony scene in literature.

Cyrano de Bergerac is a beautiful period drama that will appeal to the romantic in all of us.

For A Woman (2013) Film Review – A Quietly Devastating Study of Love and Family Dynamics

Review by Brittaney:

For a Woman is a French film that explores the dynamics of marriage, family, and even politics. It begins as two sisters, Tania and Anne, go through their mother’s effects after her passing. This leads Anne into a further search into her parents’ history. The film then moves into the past and the main storyline surrounding their parents, Michel and Léna.

Although For a Woman is not the film I was expecting, it was not unappreciated. With it’s quiet, unhurried pace, it slowly reveals the love and dysfunction that unites a family and tears it apart. The fact that it is set in the aftermath of WWII only enhances the melancholy discovery the two sisters make about the lives of their parents.

Gosford Park – A Period Murder Mystery from Downton Abbey’s Julian Fellowes

Review by Rissi:

If you like other works by Fellowes or period dramas set in the “jazz age” (the ’30s), this is sure to be a fun way to spend a night in. The cast alone, if nothing else, should tempt any period drama aficionado. Done up in proper and jazzy 30s style with a dash of Agatha Christie, I know the cast is reason enough for me to pop this whodunit into my player when the mood strikes.

The Halcyon, Season One (2016) – The Night Life of Glitz and Glamour During the London Blitz

Review by Rissi:

As is the usual case, my discovery of this series was the aftermath of what I like to call “window shopping” on Amazon. I uncovered it in one of those “you might also like…” carousels. While imperfect in some ways (what isn’t?) and in others charming, The Halcyon is worth its weight for period drama aficionados.

Though I’ve rarely seen this compared to Downton Abbey, similarities can be drawn. That said, I’m impressed that while it has the general vibe (upstairs vs. downstairs), it’s less about the divide (in most ways) and more about running an efficient hotel that caters to the wealthy classes. Beyond this, prejudice and varying cultures are integrated into the scripts, plus there is a Romeo and Juliet romance (I really want to say more, but SPOILERS! Just watch out for a sequence involving a dance), and even, espionage!

Recommended for those who like romantic WWII dramas, Downton Abbey or Amazon’s The Last Tycoon.

The Immortal Life Of Henrietta Lacks (2017) – A Thought-Provoking yet Frustrating Film

Review by Naazneen:

Despite my disappointment, however, if all the film adaptation of this important story does is make viewers search and find the book the movie is based on, then it would have succeeded. The world must know who this remarkable woman was. It is also vitally important for discussion to occur around the ethical consequences of a medical fraternity that took advantage of minorities. The question about the role of science and the boundaries of ethical behavior in the pursuit of the greater good is an apt and important dialogue to foster.

In the Heart of the Sea – An Intense Period Drama Based on the True Story that Inspired Moby Dick

Review by Bailey:

To me, In the Heart of the Sea is one of the best movies of the past year. It has beautiful cinematography, the pacing is good, I love that the production team paid close attention to detail (when it comes to costumes and sailing technique), I love the soundtrack, and the frame story worked well. If you haven’t seen In the Heart of the Sea, and you love adventure stories and stories of survival, check this film out. 

Jane Got A Gun: A Dark but Compelling Western Drama

Review by Bailey:

I loved this movie, from the pacing to the acting to the music to the bittersweet ending, it just worked. It’s not a perfect movie, but it’s a good one. If you like western period pieces that are also dramas with a healthy helping of action and strong female characters, you’ll probably enjoy Jane Got a Gun. It’s the story of a woman who is determined to face her past and protect her family at all costs, presented in a dark but compelling film.

The Last Post (2017) Season One – Amazon’s ’60s BBC Period Drama

Review by Rissi:

The Last Post entices period drama aficionados with its superb cast. Produced by the BBC, the series isn’t the usual “pretty picture” production that puts stars in our eyes. That said, the series is interesting and emotional, all in the best of ways.

At its core, this series is all about emotions and allowing the audience to experience every nuance of those emotions. The tension that builds is palatable, leaving us breathless in anticipation of what these characters will ultimately decide. Though not very long (the series consists of 6 episodes), the focus remains solely on the character arcs, which means the pace is slower than some of its peers.

 A League of Their Own – A Heartwarming Period Drama

Review by Elinor:

A League of Their Own is a heart-warming period drama and sports movie about an unusual chapter of American Baseball history. Based largely on truth, it follows the creation and successes of the All-American Girls’ Professional Baseball League. During the Second World War, with so many male players away fighting, it was decided that the stadiums would remain open, with women replacing men, much as they did in the factories. The league existed for twelve years, yet sadly, until this film came out, very few people knew about it.

It is a funny, enjoyable film with characters you really care about. Much like Wimbledon, A League of Their Own is a film about a sport that will appeal to fans and non-fans alike, which is no easy feat. A thoroughly entertaining and nostalgic journey about these inspiring women. If you haven’t seen it already, you really should give it a chance.

London Calling: The Great Fire Review

Review by Elizabeth:

There are a lot of familiar faces in this drama. Andrew Buchan from Garrow’s Law, Sonya Cassidy from The Paradise and Oliver Jackson-Cohen from Dracula, to name but a few. For anyone who is into 17th century fashion, it is a feast for the senses, from the mock wedding as court entertainment to the beautiful silhouette when Charles II rides out in episode four (the camera artist must have been patting themself on the back for that one!) The story isn’t particularly fast-moving, nor is the series life-changingly brilliant, but it’s a nice mid-week watch that gives you something to think about.

The Majestic (2001) – A Romantic 1950’s Period Drama about Healing

Review by Rissi:

The poignant script strips away any character inhibitions because, in turn, it forces each of them to face a past or future and rectify their fears and errors. The characterization is nicely fleshed out which lends more credence to genuine character interactions and the journey we walk with them. I also appreciated the importance (a memorial “love letter” of a sort) centered on the war and the men who died. Add in the swinging 50s-era fun (lots of amazing music!), romantic moments (of which there are more than one) and the emotional questions Pete eventually chooses to inspire and The Majestic is worth a Saturday night in. Especially for anyone who may enjoy dramas like Grantchester or Call the Midwife both of which have a similar time frame although by and large, The Majestic is a lighter-hearted piece of cinema.

Maudie (2016): A Beautiful and Bittersweet Biopic

Review by Jessica:

Maudie is a recent biopic, exploring the extraordinary life of the Canadian folk artist, Maud Lewis (1903-1970). A Canadian-Irish co-production, Maudie stars Sally Hawkins as the titular character and Ethan Hawke as her husband, Everett Lewis. This is a tight film, with a limited cast, echoing the confinements of the chronically ill Maud’s life.

Maudie is beautiful, disturbing, unsettling, unconventional. It is challenging conceptions of love, marriage, romance, relationship roles, and on it goes. It’s a slow and steady film that gets the thoughts percolating, lingering long after the credits have ended. Indeed, there is much to ruminate on after seeing Maudie. Maud Lewis was quite a woman; if this biopic is to be believed. An inspiring woman who found joy and created joy where and when she could despite life’s many obstacles. A woman who had a steely will behind her sugary sweet smile and acquiescing demeanor. A woman who did the best she could with what she had. And that’s pretty darn inspirational.

Miss Pettigrew Lives For A Day: An Underrated Period Drama Gem

Review by Elinor:

It takes elements of Cinderella and Mary Poppins and creates something entirely unique. It is a story about second chances, of love lost and regained, of naive youthfulness juxtaposed against world weariness, poverty against excess. You may choose to take it at face value or you may not. Either way Miss Pettigrew is an entertaining, sharp and intelligent film to delight the senses.

Mr. Holmes

Review by Elizabeth:

Dementia can be a devastating illness, both for the patients and for their families, especially when the sufferer had an active mind in their younger days. So imagine if one of the most active minds in fiction – that of Mr Sherlock Holmes – was subject to dementia. That is the premise of this gentle, artistic period drama, starring Sir Ian McKellen as an aged Sherlock Holmes, living in retirement at the seaside in 1947 with his housekeeper and her young son, and peacefully keeping bees.

This is a gentle, touching story for the thinking cinema-goer, a touch of relief from high-octane summer blockbusters. Having said that, there are some upsetting scenes. We see evidence of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and the bereaved families left behind. And without giving away spoilers, I was in tears near the end of the film, and very worried for the characters.  It is a story about love, loss, and family.  It also has beautifully recreated period detail of Britain both in the inter-war and post-war years, and of post-war Japan.  I highly recommend it.

Murder on the Orient Express (2017) – A Glamorous Agatha Christie Period Drama

Review by Rissi:

Minor missteps aside, Murder on the Orient Express is stunning. The sets are elaborate as each “stage” the scenes and actor perfectly. Then there are the costumes, which are gorgeous despite a limited setting (primarily a train) on which to shine. Behind the camera, some of these roles are filled by respected talent. This includes Patrick Doyle (music), and costume designer Alexandra Bryne (known for Phantom of the Opera and Marvel adaptations).

My Brilliant Career – A Spirited Heroine

Review by Elinor:

My Brilliant Career is a period drama adapted from the 1901 novel by Miles Franklin (Stella Franklin), a prominent Australian author of the time. She wrote it at just sixteen and was unprepared for the great amount of success the novel found. My Brilliant Career is a lovely film about understanding yourself and reaching out for what you truly want.

My Brilliant Career is an engaging, lively film with a good message. It reminds us to keep following our dreams even if everyone thinks we’ll fail. The film is as memorable as it’s protagonist; a classic that every woman should see.

Mini-Series Review: Neverland

Review by Elinor:

All in all, there is a lot to enjoy in this mini-series. There is magic, action, romance, suspense and even a little period drama at the very beginning. You are more likely to enjoy it if you don’t expect it to fit perfectly with the book, stage play or the more beloved film adaptations of Peter’s story. 

Oklahoma!

Review by Julia:

Sixty years ago, a film adaptation of one of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most treasured stage musicals was released, becoming one of the most classic and beloved movie musicals of all time. Oklahoma! features some of the catchiest tunes the musical duo ever wrote and is probably most famous for introducing Shirley Jones to the public.

While the songs and dance numbers are what make this film memorable and fun to watch, the acting and dialogue is a little corny, particularly Jones’ lines. Still, Shirley Jones does a great job considering this was her first film, and the other actors do a magnificent job at keeping your attention, especially the scenes featuring Aunt Eller, Annie, Will and scene stealer Ali the peddler.

This is a movie musical that will always entertain film lovers for its old fashioned settings to its wonderful music and a story that has something for everyone.

Ordeal by Innocence – Watch A Quality Agatha Christie Adaptation

Review by Rissi:

When it comes to her children, Rachel Argyll (Anna Chancellor) rules with an iron fist. She rarely, if ever, shows affection to any of her five children, all of whom she adopted. Driven by a need to appear to be a nurturer, the woman is ruthless toward her household, including her husband, Leo (Bill Nighy).

Then, on a dark night in her home, Rachel is murdered, and her son is tried and hanged for the crime. Years later, the family is about to move on as Leo prepares to remarry, but the secrets of the past and a surprise witness threaten to destroy them all.

Ordeal by Innocence is a solid production. It’s another fascinating mystery, and I cannot wait to see where the next Agatha Christie period drama will take us.

Travel Back In Time To Your Childhood With Reply 1997, 1994 & 1988

Review by Yaroslavna:

There are no roads back to our childhood, but these three dramas will get you as close to one as is humanly possible! If you are still on the fence about whether to give K-dramas a go, try out Reply 1997, 1994, or 1988. Or, better yet, all three of them! They are truly some of the best K-dramas and coming of age stories you will ever come across. They are infinitely relatable, realistic, entertaining, and are now even available on Netflix (1994 & 1997).

The beauty of these dramas is that they are one big flashback to childhood and youth and not just for the characters! Each drama introduces us to the grown-up characters in the present. They then take us back to their youth and path to adulthood. We follow the multitude of characters through their hopes, dreams, and growing pains while being reminded of our own. It’s the ultimate trip down memory lane!

Sherlock: The Abominable Bride

Review by Elinor:

While it was fun to see the writers pay homage to the original Holmes stories, it does remind you that people love the show precisely because the modernization made it fresh. Especially in terms of the latter half, viewers may be divided on how well the episode works as a whole. Some may have preferred it if it had continued to be a simple ghostly murder mystery. Others may prefer that Moffat and Gatiss take risks and give us something a little more experimental to tide us over until the next season. I am one of the latter, but I can understand why you might disagree. I suggest you give it a try and decide for yourself.

Thousand Pieces of Gold Movie Review – An Unsettling Film of Perseverance

Review by Catherine:

It’s likely that the name Lalu Nathoy means nothing to you. What historians do know about Lalu is subject to much debate. Known as Polly Bemis in the United States, Lalu was a Chinese American Pioneer in Idaho. She was among the first pioneers to settle the Salmon River, also known as The River of No Return. Known as the first Chinese bride of the wild west, historians also labeled Lalu as one of Idaho’s most romantic characters. She did indeed marry Charlie Bemis, fought for residency in the United States, and was an early entrepreneur. There is not much more to Lalu’s story. As a result, Thousand Pieces of Gold feels like it is missing something.

Thousand Pieces of Gold portrays itself as a romantic film of perseverance and discovering love in the most unlikely of places. And yes, I would agree that this film falls within Romanticism. It’s a study of heroic individualism against the backdrop of the American frontier. It’s a Romantic journey of perseverance, a quest for independence and Lalu’s rediscovery of her identity. It is not, however, a romantic film about love.

Do not mistake Thousand Pieces of Gold for a romantic story of love. However, it does offer a romantic view of the Wild West. It’s woman against man, nature, and internal conflict. It also portrayed the growing racism against the Chinese and their treatment by early western settlers. Furthermore, it’s worth watching for a glimpse into the experiences of Chinese immigrants who either willingly or unwillingly came to the United States. In this respect, it seems true to the time period.

‘Tolkien’ Movie Review – A Sentimental Glimpse at the Shaping of a Genius

Review by Brittaney:

As someone who knew very little of Tolkien’s life, I felt this film served as an excellent introduction to the famous author. It humanized a man who has been much celebrated. Focusing on his earlier years introduces us to the people and circumstances inspiring his stories.

It also whets my appetite to learn more about Tolkien and those people who had such a huge impact on his life. Not only is it interesting as the study of a life, but it also uplifts as an example of overcoming tragedy and adversity. Overall, Tolkien is a film I will not soon forget.

Tommy’s Honour (2016) -The Love Story Between a Father and Son and the Game of Golf

Review by Brittaney:

Tommy’s Honour is the tale of the father and son who are considered the founders of modern golf and is based on a book by Kevin Cook. 

Overall, I enjoyed Tommy’s Honour. Although it does move at a slower pace and lacked a cohesive story line, the acting, cinematography, and the father-son story more than made up for it. If you are a fan of golf you will probably appreciate this film. But you may be disappointed that there is not more focus on the game and the Morris’ history with it. However, you do not have to be a golf fan to appreciate the beautiful relationships that make up the heart of this film. And the stunning visuals of Scotland will make any viewer long to book a ticket right away to this country of natural beauty. But more than anything Tommy’s Honour should inspire you to value even more your own relationships with those you love.

Up In Central Park

Review by Rissi:

In Up in Central Park, Deanna’s next-to-last film (a 23-credit career), she plays the plucky Rosie Dunn, a young Irish immigrant (sans an Irish brogue) moving to America with her uneducated father. Excited about immigrating to the land of the free, upon their arrival, Rosie and her father are swept into the web of William “Boss” Tweed (Vincent Price). The boss is a political giant who is gaming the system, running an incompetent mayoral candidate while actually making all the decisions. Using immigrants’ votes, Mr. Dunn is one of the few who blindly follow the instructions of Tweed’s men, nominating him to be their “yes man” candidate for the superintendent of Central Park.

If you’re a fan of the bygone era of Hollywood or black-and-white musical films, this is worth seeing. The pretty staging (including the romantic image of a couple “falling in love” while riding the carousel, all complete with him in a proper top hat) also adds great appeal and atmospheric quality. Though I failed to mention it earlier, I also liked Rosie’s relationship with her father; the cute way she constantly badgers him to wear his proper dress and his effort to learn to read make their on-screen scenes memorable. When all is said and done, Up in Central Park is like a lovely Sunday afternoon walk, one that one might enjoy visiting in a version of New York’s yesteryear, charming and iconic Central Park.

Viceroy’s House

Review by Rissi:

Director Gurinder Chadha (Bend it Like Beckham) brings a personal story to the screen with her dramatized historical epic, Viceroy’s House, about India’s transition to independence in the 1940s. 

While the movie invites viewer curiosity due to the historical backdrop, it’s the unexpected love story that sweeps you into a portrait of old-fashioned charm. That said, although the end is supremely romantic, it’s also very abrupt. However, we can forgive this small mistake since the end is still good.

Viceroy’s House is an impressive drama, especially for those who enjoy quality films. In all, it’s the perfect choice for any period drama aficionado!

Victor Frankenstein

Review by Clarissa:

The tale of Frankenstein is one that has been told and retold through the years. In Victor Frankenstein, we see the man behind the monster and the madness as told through the eyes of Victor’s friend, Igor (Daniel Radcliffe).

For viewers looking for a true adaptation of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, this is not the film for you. But if you’re looking for a clever, campy film with the same inventiveness and similar aesthetic as Guy Ritchie’s Sherlock Holmes films, then Victor Frankenstein will satisfy that need! James McAvoy looks entirely crazy for most of the film, but looks like he’s having a ball doing so. Daniel Radcliffe’s performance as Igor is very empathetic, and he does a good job of balancing melodrama with ironic comedy. Andrew Scott helps to round out the cast, with his inspector portrayed as obsessed with finding Victor and Igor, who are, in turn, obsessed with creating life. A romance does blossom between Igor and Lorelai, and it is a good counterbalance to the intensity of Victor’s chaotic breakthroughs. Their romance is quiet, but Radcliffe and Findlay have good chemistry, and their story helps to strengthen the backbone of a very enjoyable film.

Victoria & Abdul

Review by Jessica:

Victoria & Abdul is a biopic based on the real-life relationship between Queen Victoria in her last years and her Indian Muslim servant Abdul Karim…

Yeah, it’s not historically accurate. But what it is – is a heartwarming film about a lonely, aging woman finding a friend. And these two people enriching one another’s lives through their love and compassion and curiosity – despite their vast differences. It’s feelgood all the way. Plus, it’s cinematographically tip-top. The acting is superlative. Dame Judi Dench does not disappoint. Overall, you’re left with a warm, fuzzy feeling after having seen it. I like warm fuzzies.

The Zookeeper’s Wife

Review by Rissi:

The story follows Antonina Żabiński (Jessica Chastain), a woman living in Warsaw, Poland, on the cusp of World War II in 1939. A mother of one and devoted wife to her husband, Dr. Jan Żabiński (Johan Heldenbergh), Antonina’s family is a happy one. They operate one of Warsaw’s most prestigious zoos and live on the grounds where they house the animals. As the seasons change and they enter the 1940s, an increase in the Nazi presence inspires her husband to suggest she and their son leave. She refuses, and they carry on the daily operation of their lives until tragedy strikes.

If you haven’t seen this, I highly recommend The Zookeeper’s Wife. It’s not an easy film to watch but is worth every tear, milestone and moment. It’s a breathtaking journey of the risk and fights one family takes to save the lives of the innocent.