OK for kids 12+
Queen's biopic is more tender romance than historical saga.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this period biopic about England's beloved Queen Victoria isn’t just the story of a legendary monarch -- it's also a love story about the loving, committed relationship between Victoria and her husband. But despite that -- and the movie's tame PG rating -- kids and tweens probably won't be drawn in by the characters' political machinations, particularly in the movie's first half. Families who do watch won't find too much content to object to -- there's one scene that involves shooting, as well as some flirting and kissing, but no nudity or strong language.
- Families can talk about how Victoria adjusts to her new role as queen. Does she handle it gracefully? Does her youth get in the way? What, ultimately, gives her the confidence to rule?
- Is Victoria a strong role model? How does she compare to other movie and TV potrayals of famous queens?
- Why does Victoria resist Albert at first? And when they're finally married, why does she still fend off his offers to help? What is she trying to prove?
The good stuff
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Messages: Victoria grapples with the responsibilities of the monarchy but rises to the occasion beautifully. Though she makes mistakes, she comes away from them wiser and better able to rule. The movie also makes it clear that power isn’t all that matters -- love does, too.
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Role models: Victoria is a strong-willed woman who manages to stand up against detractors and those who aim to take advantage of her youth. But she also has a stubborn streak that, at points, nearly compromises important relationships. Still, she’s able to learn from her mistakes.
What to watch for
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Violence: A man shoots at the royal couple. Crowds protest. Politicians debate loudly.
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Sex: Couples flirt and, later, when finally married, kiss.
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Language: Nothing stronger than "damn."
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Consumerism: Not an issue
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: Some drinking and smoking in social situations.
Fan Reviews provided by
5
The Young Victoria by coolpen88
Fantastic movie that presents a small portion of Victoria's life, just when she was gaining power and meeting her future husband, Albert. The acting was always top-notch, and the costumes were especially enchanting. But I must say, the cinematography had to be one of the greatest aspects because it truly made this film shine and glimmer.
5
Captivating! by joplinspig
I saw this movie Christmas day, and loved it! I thought all the actors gave great performances, and were very convincing; I was very anxious for Victoria to become 18 and be able to stand on her own, and I fell in love with Victoria and Albert falling in love. I loved the scene, where they quarreled, and she tried to assert herself as Queen as if she were suggesting he was a mere stud-service, and he ignored her! Great movie! It will become part of my DVD library.
5
You go Victoria! by movie_steed
Wow, what a terrific film and entertaining to boot. What an incredibly romantic story about two of Great Britain's Monarchs who actually feel in love and remained so until Prince Albert death. The cast, especially Emily Blunt and Rupert Friend are outstanding. The both just about burn up the screen with burgeoning love. But what I really enjoyed the most about the film is that it is very near to truth of what actually happened. That made me very happy after the two recent Queen Elizabeth movies starring Cate Blanchett that were all over the map with the real story, mixing characters and making up fictious events and combining characters, something most historical films do not need. The real life stories of the countless monarchs, presidents, dictators, etc. who've ruled the world don't need Hollywood to add or change the real story. Definitely thumbs up, a must see for all!
5
The Young Victoria by Puppy72
She sweeps you away, with her graceful strength. By believing in love and truth in a world where aristocracy is calculatingly and cold, the young Victoria brings you to simple joys. This film makes me believe all the more in the beauty of courage and what it can create. Leaving the theater in silence, I was peacefully swept away in the grandeur of the period's depiction. Beautiful.
5
grandeur with humanity by sharonTN
Emily Blunt invests royalty with dignity; this movie is for history buffs and anyone interested in human relationships in highly charged political settings.
4
True love from a Queen by jagjaxon
Good acting and a great (true) story. Photography was superb and they did a good job with costuming. I enjoyed this show, but not as much as my wife who loves a really good love story. I can't she a Prince Albert had 9 children and at the end it is printed on the screen that he died at forty-two.
4
Sumptuous by kingbuch
generally well acted, beautiful sets and costumes, good story