Story
Victoria (Emily Blunt) is 11 when she realises that she is next in line to the throne of England. Her mother, the Duchess of Kent (Miranda Richardson), will be Regent if the existing king, King William (Jim Broadbent), dies before Victoria comes of age. In the meantime, others try to position themselves to get control of the throne. They include Sir John Conroy (Mark Strong), who has a lot of influence over the Duchess of Kent. There is also the Duchess of Kent’s brother, King Leopold of Belgium.
King Leopold sends his nephew, Prince Albert (Rupert Friend), to England to ‘woo’ Victoria and create a strong link between the two families. Victoria and Albert fall in love. The courtship is not straightforward, however, because Lord Melbourne (Paul Bettany) initially has a lot of influence over Victoria. Albert gives Victoria supportive and good advice about some real political problems. Victoria then realises how important Albert is to her, and they are married.
Themes
None of concern
Violence
This movie contains some infrequent mild violence. For example:
- Sir John Conroy argues with Victoria and then pushes her violently onto a couch.
- An assassin attempts to kill Victoria, and Albert gets in front of her. Albert is hurt and carried into the palace, bleeding.
Content that may disturb children
Under 8
In addition to violent scenes mentioned above, children under eight could be concerned by a scene in which Victoria is sick. Sir John is trying to force her to sign over the regency to her mother. Victoria refuses, and Sir John shouts at her and shakes her.
Over 8
Children over eight are unlikely to be disturbed by anything in this movie.
Sexual references
This movie contains some sexual references. For example, Prince Albert discovers that he and Victoria have only three days for a ‘honeymoon’. So he stops dressing Victoria and started undressing her (only her stockings). He says this is because they don’t have much time.
Alcohol, drugs and other substances
This movie contains some use of substances. For example:
- Wine is served at all the big dinners.
- King William is very drunk at one point and insults the Duchess of Kent.
Nudity and sexual activity
This movie contains some nudity and sexual activity. For example, after their marriage ceremony, Victoria and Albert are in bed together for the first time. They kiss passionately. When they wake up the next day, Victoria says that she now feels ‘quite married’.
Product placement
None
Coarse language
None
Ideas to discuss with your children
The Young Victoria is a period drama that is likely to lack interest for children under 13. It describes the life of Queen Victoria before she became Queen and up until the birth of her first child. It highlights the difficulties faced by a young woman expected to inherit the throne of England. Victoria shows strength, determination and a great deal of courage. She stands up for herself and her beliefs against people who try to manipulate and use her.
Values in this movie that you might wish to reinforce with your children include the importance of:
- listening to good advice
- being honest and true to yourself
- helping others less fortunate than yourself
- trying to develop sincere relationships.
This movie could also give you the chance to discuss with your children the difference between stubbornness and strength. Disaster can happen if the two are confused.