This story is about a woman that dresses as and passes for a male most of her life. Albert, played by Glenn Close, lives in 19th century Ireland and works as a waiter/butler that caters to the wealthy in all of their opulence and stiffness but still has wants and needs of his own. It is the sudden appearance of Hubert (Janet McTeer) that opens Albert’s world up to a new realm of possibilities while simultaneously showcasing his own naiveté.
It is this innocence that makes the film entertaining and maddening at the same time. In fact, Albert tends to play second fiddle to the rest of the cast but then again he has spent his whole life trying to make as little noise as possible. Janet McTeer certainly steals the show even with her limited screen time. In fact, it appears she was just nominated for an Independent Spirit Award for her performance. Even Mia Wasikowska upstages Glenn Close’s subtle performance as the lead. However, you do end up feeling for Albert because he is so childlike.
The film also does a great job of showcasing topics that are just bubbling under the facade of the 19th century Irish society and society today. The film deals with marriage equality, gender identity, class warfare, and many more issues but not in a preachy way. It was definitely a good watch but there was a moment in the middle where I didn’t want to watch anymore. However, not even 30 seconds later the plot changed and drew me back. I thought I knew where the film was going but was pleasantly surprised to see that it did not go there.
6.5/10 Stars
