Review of Albert Nobbs (2011) by Tvjerry — 06 Feb 2012

The "uncanny valley" is a robotics/animation term that describes the subtle area between looking human and looking creepy. That's where Glenn Close resides in this film. She plays a woman who lives as a man to make a living in 19th century Ireland, but the peculiar makeup is never convincing.

Ironically, Janet McTeeer, who also plays another woman-as-a-man, easily passes. If you look pass this technicality, you'll find a quiet, sad film about a quiet, sad person who's trying to cope with her unusual existence.

There's a solid supporting cast and some enjoyable subplots, but the deliberate pacing prevents the film from ever building up much steam. Well-crafted in the "Masterpiece Theatre" style, but insignificant and predictable in the drama.