Audiences enjoy good historical dramas. The genre
seems to be going through a boom with several TV and films delving into the
past. The early part of the 20th century especially seems popular with
the likes of ‘Downton Abbey’ and others finding favour. ‘Viceroy’s House’
uses one of ‘Downton Abbey’s’ leads which should help carry over some of its
audience. As with any good historical essay, it revels in its elegant
costumes and gripping story that should appeal to audiences of all ages.
In 1947, British India was in the stages of beginning its
independence. Splitting the land into India and Pakistan, the task for
those in charge was monumental. The head of this taskforce was Lord Louis
Mountbatten (Hugh Bonneville). Attempting to oversee a peaceful
transition, his efforts were made harder by different sides opposing change.
Aided by his wife Edwina (Gillian Anderson), Louis faced hurdles at every
corner at an important moment in history.
As an educational document of a defining moment in 20th
century history, ‘Viceroy’s House’ is engaging. How Mountbatten’s
compassionate idealism was at odds with his role demanding it ‘do the right
thing by Britain’ is compelling. His wife’s influence on his thoughts
shine through with the romance between Jeet (Manish Dayal) and Aalia (Huma
Qureshi) providing another interesting layer. Jeet’s and Aalia’s
religious differences become a metaphor for the split India faces and the
tumultuous times ahead.
These elements are conveyed with competent ease by director
Gurinder Chadha. With her own family having lived through the painful
aftermath of independence, Chadha infuses the film with genuine
authenticity. This extends to the locations and period detail which is
excellent. Whilst the script occasionally leans towards narrative clichés, the
central true story remains consistently fascinating. The cast provide
genuine conviction to their roles as people conflicted by their beliefs.
Whilst not quite the engrossing historical biopic it wants
to be, ‘Viceroy’s House’ still captivates. It strives for quality drama
and it succeeds. History devotees should admire its consistently high
production values proving audience’s love affair with the genre will continue
unabated.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 7
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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