The Young Victoria (2009) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“The Young Victoria” (2009), directed by Jean-Marc Vallée, is a historical drama that portrays the early life and reign of Queen Victoria. Starring Emily Blunt as Queen Victoria and Rupert Friend as Prince Albert, the film explores the young queen’s ascent to the throne and her relationship with her future husband.
Plot Summary
“The Young Victoria” focuses on the period of Queen Victoria’s life from her early years as a princess to her early reign as queen. The film begins with Victoria’s childhood, highlighting her isolation and the strict control exercised over her by her mother and her mother’s advisor, Sir John Conroy.
The narrative explores her journey to the throne at the age of 18, following the death of her uncle, King William IV. As Victoria navigates the complexities of royal duties and political intrigue, she finds herself drawn to her cousin, Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. The film depicts their courtship, marriage, and the challenges they face together.
The story is set against the backdrop of 19th-century Britain, with a focus on the political machinations, personal struggles, and the romance between Victoria and Albert that profoundly impacted her reign.
Character Performances
Emily Blunt stars as Queen Victoria, delivering a captivating and nuanced performance. Blunt’s portrayal captures Victoria’s transformation from a naive young princess to a powerful and confident queen. Her performance adds depth to Victoria’s character, highlighting her intelligence, determination, and vulnerability.
Rupert Friend plays Prince Albert, bringing a dignified and charming presence to the role. Friend’s portrayal of Albert emphasizes his supportive role in Victoria’s life and his influence on her reign. His chemistry with Blunt adds emotional resonance to their on-screen relationship.
The supporting cast includes Paul Bettany as Lord Melbourne, Victoria’s Prime Minister, and Miranda Richardson as Queen Adelaide, both of whom contribute to the film’s historical and political context. Their performances add layers to the story and enhance the depiction of the political landscape of the time.
Themes and Audience Appeal
“The Young Victoria” explores themes of power, love, and personal growth. The film delves into the challenges of leadership and the impact of personal relationships on public duty. It portrays Victoria’s journey from a young, sheltered princess to a strong and influential queen.
The film’s appeal lies in its combination of historical drama, romance, and character-driven storytelling. Emily Blunt and Rupert Friend’s performances, along with the film’s period-accurate details and elegant visuals, make it an engaging and informative watch.
“The Young Victoria” is particularly appealing to viewers who enjoy historical dramas, royal biopics, and films with a focus on romance and personal growth. Its portrayal of a pivotal period in British history offers both entertainment and insight into the life of one of Britain’s most famous monarchs.
Visuals and Direction
Jean-Marc Vallée’s direction of “The Young Victoria” is marked by its elegant and visually stunning portrayal of 19th-century Britain. Vallée’s use of costume design, set decoration, and cinematography effectively captures the grandeur and intricacies of the era.
The film’s visual style contributes to its historical authenticity, with detailed period costumes and lavish sets that bring the Victorian era to life. The cinematography enhances the film’s romantic and dramatic elements, creating a rich and immersive experience for viewers.
The film’s score, composed by Abel Korzeniowski, adds to the emotional impact of the story, complementing the film’s dramatic and romantic moments with a moving and evocative soundtrack.
Reception and Impact
“The Young Victoria” received positive reviews from critics and audiences for its historical accuracy, strong performances, and beautiful production values. The film was praised for its portrayal of Queen Victoria and its focus on the personal and political aspects of her early reign.
The film’s impact is reflected in its success as a historical drama and its contribution to the portrayal of British royalty in film. It provides a nuanced and engaging look at a significant period in history and the personal life of a prominent monarch.
Streaming Availability: Where to Watch “The Young Victoria” Online
If you’re interested in watching “The Young Victoria,” the film is available on several streaming platforms and rental services.
Amazon Prime Video
“The Young Victoria” is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically range from $3.99 to $4.99 for HD quality, with purchasing options usually between $9.99 and $14.99.
Apple iTunes
Apple iTunes offers “The Young Victoria” for rent and purchase. Rental prices generally start at $3.99 for HD quality, with purchase options around $9.99 to $14.99. The film can be streamed on Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, and Apple TVs.
Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play Movies & TV provides “The Young Victoria” for rental or purchase. Rental prices are similar to other platforms, typically between $3.99 and $4.99, with purchasing options ranging from $9.99 to $14.99.
Hulu
Hulu may include “The Young Victoria” in its library. Checking the platform for availability is recommended, as film offerings can vary over time.
Disney+
Disney+ may also feature “The Young Victoria” in its catalog. Checking the platform for availability is advised.
Final Thoughts
“The Young Victoria” is a captivating historical drama that offers a detailed and engaging portrayal of Queen Victoria’s early life and reign. With Emily Blunt and Rupert Friend delivering strong performances and Jean-Marc Vallée providing elegant direction, the film provides a rich and immersive experience.
Whether you’re a fan of historical dramas, royal biopics, or films with a focus on romance and personal growth, “The Young Victoria” is a worthwhile addition to your watchlist. Its availability on various streaming platforms ensures that its engaging narrative and beautiful visuals can be enjoyed by a wide audience.
