I’m such a sucker for period pieces, especially those that feature Oscar-winning costumes and amazing actresses like Emily Blunt.  Give me a period piece that includes both some history and a love story, and I’m compeltely gone. 

Going into this movie, I thought I knew a little about Queen Victoria, only to realize as I was watching it that I didn’t.  Her name is everywhere in London, as is her husband’s, Albert, not to mention the British Columbian city that, growing up in Seattle, I visited quite a bit.  The whole regency thing felt vaguely familiar, but apparently Hollywood’s ability to teach me history is more impacting than a textbook or museum plaque.  Go figure.

While I enjoyed learning about her life and the fascinating family/political relationships that affected her from such a young age, it was her relationship with German-born Prince Albert that drove the story forward.  I felt so bad for both of them, the way they were “guided,” more like controlled, by their family and advisors.  How would that feel to be so surrounded by people and yet feel terribly alone?  You could see how they understood each other from the start.  Of course that understanding grows into something more, something almost palpable it’s so strong.  But, like all real couple, loving each other is not as easy as it seems when you’re faced with the realities and difficulties of daily life.

Before I give away too much, go rent this now that it’s on DVD.  It will not disappoint.