Victoria & Abdul (2017) Review in 2025
Victoria & Abdul is a historical drama film that tells the story of an unlikely friendship between Queen Victoria and a young Indian clerk named Abdul Karim. The movie explores themes of love, loss, and cultural differences.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to mature themes and some violence.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for fans of historical dramas and romance. It's a beautifully shot and well-acted film that explores themes of love, loss, and cultural differences.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie takes a dramatic turn when Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert, passes away, and she becomes increasingly dependent on Abdul for companionship. As their friendship deepens, they face opposition from the royal court and societal norms, leading to a tragic conclusion.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-researched, but it feels a bit predictable at times. The pacing is well-balanced, and the plot twists are satisfying.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Judi Dench delivering a tour-de-force performance as Queen Victoria. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from Eddie Izzard and Tim Pigott-Smith.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Judi Dench delivering a standout performance as Queen Victoria. Ali Fazal brings a charming and nuanced portrayal of Abdul Karim.
direction8.50/10
Stephen Frears' direction is masterful, capturing the grandeur and intimacy of the royal court. The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful shots of the Indian landscape.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with a mix of grand and intimate shots that capture the essence of the story. The color palette is vibrant and rich, adding to the overall mood of the film.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's strongest aspect is its performances, particularly Judi Dench's tour-de-force portrayal of Queen Victoria. The cinematography is also stunning, capturing the grandeur and intimacy of the royal court.
Cons
The story feels a bit predictable at times, and the pacing could be improved. Some viewers may find the themes of cultural differences and colonialism to be heavy-handed or insensitive.
Notable Quotes
"I am not a queen, I am a woman."
"I will not be ignored."
"You are my friend, Abdul."
