Albert Nobbs
A passion project for Glenn Close for many years, her performance here is utterly captivating. The film also has a slow burning subtlety to it that is strangely inviting. But the plot is slim and it veers into creepy, then ridiculously melodramatic far too quickly after a patient start. As good as Close is, though, she's upstaged by Janet McAteer who deserved more screentime.
Close is a woman who has masqueraded as a man for many years, working as a butler in a rundown Dublin hotel in the 19th century. When she's told that she'll be rooming with a recently hired, seemingly masculine painter (actually played by Janet McAteer), she worries that her true gender will be found out - which it promptly is. But she's told her secret is safe, as the struggling hotel hires another new recruit - the actually very manly Joe (Johnson) - who quickly begins a relationship with naive maid Helen (the always excellent Wasikowska).
While certainly a very interesting character piece on the surface, Albert Nobbs begins a little too stoically and then descends into the melodramatic all too quickly. It did need to do something to take it out of a comfortable second gear, but the underlining story of the woman forced to dress as a man simply to work is already tragic enough. Close is obviously incredibly passionate about the project, having played the same role on Broadway a couple of decades ago, and as a showcase for her undeniable talents it certainly is worth seeing. She was nominated for an Oscar for a reason, as was Janet McAteer - who is superb.
Recognisable Irish faces are used to sporadic effect. Gleeson offers his usual imposing presence in a small enough role, while other local faces pop up in smaller, but relatively substantial roles. Accent wise everyone does fairly sterling work, with the main leads all doing a great job; being that this isn’t an Irish director or local core cast, it's a surprising plus.
Not without its moments, the performances are great, but the plot turns a little difficult to swallow.
Story by Mike Sheridan | 17:08 | Wednesday 22nd August 2012 | DVD review
PreviousAmerican Pie: ReunionComments
No comments have been posted for this article yet. Be the first!
Log in to leave a comment
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed here are those of the viewer and do not reflect those of Entertainment.ie. Entertainment.ie accepts no responsibility, legal or otherwise, for their accuracy of content. Please contact us to report abusive content
Join us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
