Review of Victor/Victoria (1982) by Jim H — 29 Jul 2011

A woman impersonating a man impersonating a woman falls for a gangster in Paris of 1934.

This film is not only delightful entertainment, there's also a feminist/gay rights point subtly at play. At one point, Victoria actually suggests that the degradation homosexuals are subjected to, which is seen in the gangsters' homophobia as well as King Marchan's reaction to publicizing his relationship with Victor(ia), is less of a hardship than what women must endure.

I thought some of the musical numbers went on a little too long, and I didn't think Norma needed a song to advance her character's part of the story; also, the weakest number is the one that was repeated. But this is Julie Andrews we're talking about, so obviously she has a legendary voice, and the songs here are great for her.

The performances by Andrews and Robert Preston are great. James Garner plays the straight man, no pun intended, and he does so well. Lesley Ann Warren over-acts as Norma, King's ditzy girlfriend, but it all fits with the camp atmosphere created by director Blake Edwards.

I especially like the exposition. Victoria watching a fat man grossly eating and fainting at the sight was an excellent way to communicate a lot about her character's situation.

Overall, Victor/Victoria is a fantastic film both on the level of sheer enjoyment and on a deeper, intellectual level.