03/02/06 Mrs. Henderson Presents

Mrs. Henderson Presents (2005), directed by Stephen Frears

watched solo; theater (Galaxy Cinema, Cary, NC)

Not always being a fan of either wry British films or musicals, you would think that this wouldn't be the first thing I'd run to go see. However, I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised with this film the whole way through. The dry humor was punctuated with plenty of biting retorts and spicy language to kick it up that extra American notch. Dame Judi Dench has a mouth like a sailor for one, and kudos to her for stretching as a proper actress there. She plays a widow who eagerly wants an artistic hobby in war-torn high-society London. She finds it in purchasing & renovating an old theater in town, and hiring a stubborn yet inventive manager (played brilliantly by Bob Hoskins) to run its productions. They soon unveil the risque revue that involves completely nude performers, a veritable female "Full Monty" if you will. Quickly becoming a shocking hit, especially with the young male soldiers desperate for some "art," and brings the community together for something fun in the middle of everything terrible going on around them. Sort of the perfectly quaint British comedy, with tons of language (Frears' usual witty banter) and nudity to have them poking fun at themselves for their often uptight demeanor. It proves to be a whimsical metaphor for the ever present English resolve.

4 out of 5 stars