Review of Albert Nobbs (2011) by Aaron A — 15 Aug 2012

"Why aren't you in fancy dress?".

Synopsis: Having for decades disguised herself as a man while working as a butler in a posh 19th-century Dublin hotel, a woman calling herself Albert Nobbs reconsiders her charade when a handsome painter arrives on the scene.

Just becuase someone claims to be a film enthusiast (which I do) doesn't mean that they are interested in every flick under the sun. Despite garnering a respectable amount of awards attention and actually being nominated for a number of oscars, as well as being a period piece (which I love), my interest in this picture was very low even as I loaded the feature into the dvd tray. In the end, the film was one I figuered I needed to watch, so I did.

From an acting perspective the picture was definatly a must see from last year. Glenn Close vitually loses herself in a role that requires an uncommon amount of bravery to simply fill much less excell. Janet McTeer in a similar sopporting role is every bit as courageous and is less impressive only becuase she doesn't get quite as miuch screen-time. Lastly, Young actress Mia Wasikowska again proves that she is one of the best young actresses in Hollywood as one of the titular chracter's co-workers at the hotel.

The problem is that despite the great collection of acting performances, there isn't anything else here that truly impresses. With a tale of this kind, and it's themes of personal lonelyness, insecurity and even identity; it's hard to not feel as if a more emotive approach would be more effective. As it is, we watch and admire both the character's and actor's bravery amidst a world of indifference and hardship, yet we never quite feel their pain and suffering sympathetically. It feels timid and unsure of itself, like a PG~13 rated film when it should feel substantial enough to warrant an R.

Luckily, the film is interesting enough (once you break the ice and put the flick into the dvd player) that it never feels like a waste of time. Even if the movie doesn't stay with you as long as the performances.