Review of Albert Nobbs (2011) by Claudine J — 10 Jun 2012

Glenn Close seems to have had the idea to underline Albert's timidity; this has the effect, especially in comparison with Janet McTeer's character, of making the guy a complete wuss. Result: I was not moved by his plight, I was annoyed.

There's a patented GC moment at the end when the actress gives vent to emotion, but it's too little, too late. No, McTeer steals the screen every time she's on & Pauline Collins is wonderfully smarmy, but the whole film is diminished by Albert's complete lack of energy.

If it was an actor's or director's choice, it wasn't a good one. Energy cannot be totally transmitted through the infamous GC eye-stare. And the beach scene? Shoulda been left on the cutting room floor.