Mrs. Brown

1997 Drama

The ruler of England discovers the value of common friendship in this historical drama. After the death of her husband Prince Albert, Queen Victoria (Judi Dench) is despondent, and she remains in mourning for two years after Albert's passing. When one of her servants suggests that a daily ride on horseback might be a tonic for the Queen's health and spirits, a Scotsman named John Brown (Billy Connolly) is hired as her guide and groom. At first, the Queen shows no interest in riding, though Brown readies a horse for her each day; finally, after several days, Mr. Brown speaks frankly to the Queen, announcing, "Honest to God, I never thought I'd see you in such a state!" While her court is shocked, the Queen is refreshed that someone would speak to her so directly. Soon the Queen is riding with Mr. Brown every morning, and she discovers him to be a friend and confidante who will speak to her as a person and not as a potentate. However, many are shocked by their relationship, believing that the commoner Mr. Brown is using his friendship for political advantage -- or worse, that he's become her lover. more..

Director: John Madden

Starring: Judi Dench, Billy Connolly, Geoffrey Palmer, Antony Sher, Gerald Butler

Reviews

  • A love story about two strong-willed people who find exhilaration in testing each other. It is not about sexual love, or even romantic love, really, but about that kind of love based on challenge and fascination.

    Roger Ebert - The Chicago Sun-Times

    19 January 2013

  • Queen Victoria is played with splendid regal grace by Judi Dench.

    Elvis Mitchell - The New York Times

    19 January 2013

  • Their personality types match up splendidly with the characters they play as well as each other, and Mrs. Brown's greatest pleasure is seeing and hearing them spar. Even with the gloves on, this is a battle well worth observing.

    Kenneth Turan - Los Angeles Times

    19 January 2013

  • Classy fare, with posh settings, gorgeous scenery and lots and lots of polishing from director John Madden ("Ethan Frome") and writer Jeremy Brock.

    Rita Kempley - The Washington Post

    19 January 2013

  • A first-rate historical drama.

    Edward Guthmann - The San Francisco Chronicle

    19 January 2013

Awards

  • Best Actress in a Leading Role

    Academy Awards (1998)

     
  • Best Costume Design

    BAFTA Awards (1998)

  • Best Actress - Film

    BAFTA Awards, Scotland (1997)

  • Best Actress

    Chicago Film Critics Association Awards (1998)

  • Best Supporting Actor

    Chlotrudis Awards (1998)