Sunday, January 23, 2011

Sunday Viewing: “Mrs. Henderson Presents,” 2005

Mrs. Henderson Presents tells the true tale of a wealthy widow who, feeling lost without her husband and son, opens a London theater as a form of distraction. The story begins in 1938 as Mrs. Henderson tries to attract patrons to her theater by introducing a musical revue. The revue brings customers, but it also brings copycats as rival theaters imitate their success.


In order to set themselves apart, Mrs. Henderson proposes that they introduce nude females to their revue in the style of Paris’ Moulin Rouge. Her theater manager, Vivian Van Damm likes the idea, but the British government isn’t too keen on it. Mrs. Henderson must convince the Lord Chamberlain to agree to their scandalous scheme.

Meanwhile, London is rumbling with the beginnings of the second World War. While the theater (which is below ground) is relatively safe during the terrifying bombings of London, the war is causing considerable unrest. Performances continue, but the world around them is changing. Will the theater have to close?

This charming film is beautifully produced and stars Dame Judi Dench as Laura Henderson and Bob Hoskins as Vivian Van Damm. It also features the film debut of British singer, Will Young. This is a story of oppression and freedom, fear and bravery and the perfect representation of a changing world.







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