Review of Albert Nobbs (2011) by Jennifer X — 21 Dec 2011

Despite an exquisite performance from Glenn Close in the title role which enables her to embody all the inner turmoil of a woman trying to find happiness and success in the guise of a man during the latter 19th Century, unfortunately I came out feeling like the story was only partly told, with far too many loose ends left unresolved. It dampened my feelings for what could have been a masterclass in the period drama, led by such an understated but fantastic performance from Close in a time when a woman's role was not what her character strived for and the sadness that she developed because of this longing. I kept thinking this could really be a powerful drama, but it never quite got there.

As I said though, that's not for lack of trying though from Close who is perfect in the role, taking on the frail frame of a waiter with grand aspirations in Dublin with aplomb. And while her supporting cast vary from the good Wasikowska, McTeer, Gleeson and Collins to the rather cardboard Aaron Johnson, what also agitated me was how it swung far too easily from seriousness to slapstick with jarring repetivity. Having said that, there were elements to enjoy, and indeed in isolation the comic aspect is very funny, it just didn't work in this environment. Otherwise, the scenery and wardrobe did well to set the atmosphere of the movie and take you into the world of Albert Nobbs, and so alongside Close's brilliant performance you stick with her character despite the movie's flaws, feeling every emotion along the way in a sombre, if a little underwhelming story.