High Falls Film Festival - Movie Review of Mrs. Henderson Presents

Dame Judy Dench again puts on a flawless performance as an affluent British woman in 1937 who buys a theatre in pre-WWII London after the death of her husband. Though based on a true story, cinematically beautiful, apparently well funded (the era is faithfully reproduced with wardrobe, cars and sets) some films need not be made.

The character is wealthy, bored and looking for some amusement to fill her days and nights. After not being suitably stimulated by “charity work” she begins a career as a theatre owner, which leads to nude shows disguised as art to bypass the restrictions of the times.

Bob Hoskins portrays her producer Vivian Van Damm, who at times bans her from her theatre for interfering with his creative control. Hoskins is adequate in his role, as is Dench.

Kelly Reilly in her role as Maureen is one of the high points of the film. Her character is manipulated by Mrs. Henderson into doing something that has a lasting impact upon her life. Kelly Reilly also starred in a small film "L'Auberge Espanole" that really showcased her potential. I would go to this film again just to see her excellent acting skills.

The film drags at times and I might have left before the end but surrounded by visiting dignitaries I was less willing to get up and depart.

I felt that at times the lines were quite similar to those Dench spoke in Shakespeare In Love especially when she had to get approval from a Lord to put on the show in her theatre. The musical numbers are well done and entertaining in a burlesque sort of way.

How much of this film is true is open to question. I can only guess that some poetic license has been taken.

It is a nice film but I should have stuck to my preference of documentaries instead of being lead astray by big names and big budgets.

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Windmill Theatre

The Windmill was a famous theatre on Windmill Street in London. Its famous motto was 'We Never Close', due to having nude ladies (if only standing still) as part of the act. The reason for their immobility was a ruling that since nude statues were not inherently obscene, it was permissible to depict nudity on stage only if the performers remained absolutely motionless. Thus the famous "Windmill Girls" frequently appeared nude as living tableaus. Several comedians received their first gig at the Windmill. It was later turned into a private club.