If it’s one thing we say on almost a daily basis, it’s that there aren’t enough transvestite period pieces.
But our wish has been fulfilled thanks to Albert Nobbs, opening today. In the film, Glenn Close plays a woman who dresses and acts like a man in order to get work in 19th century Ireland. The charade lasts for 30 years and nobody’s the wiser – until, of course, somebody figures it out.
What results is a bittersweet love story and the pursuit of dreams amidst the harsh living conditions of that era.
The movie plays like more of a made-for-BBC production because it’s such a quiet little affair. The performances are understated and all the actors are superbly cast. Other big names like Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Janet McTeer, Brenda Fricker and Pauline Collins fill up the marquee, but it’s Close who rightfully deserves above-the-title credit.
This subtle star turn is far from the scenery noshing she’s often cast to do.
And it’s a more-than-welcome change.
Opens today in theaters everywhere
www.albertnobbs-themovie.com