Albert Nobbs

Movie Name: Albert Nobbs

Year of Release: 2011

Director: Rodrigo Garcia

Stars: Glenn Close, Mia Wasikowska, Aaron Johnson, Janet McTeer, Pauline Collins, Brendan Gleeson, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Brenda Fricker, Mark Williams, Phyllida Law, Bronagh Gallagher

Genre: Drama

Score out of ten (whole numbers only): 5

Synopsis:

Rodrio Garcia's new film, following "Mother and Child", is an adaptation of a short story from George Moore. This story had been played in the theater by Glenn Close, who championed this story for over twenty years and was crucial in the development and realization of the film. Albert Nobbs is a waiter in a small hotel, where he is impeccable in his attire and service. Albert saves all his money and extra tips in the hopes of saving enough in order to buy a little shop for himself. However, Albert is in reality a woman who has been in disguise for most of her life. When she accidentally meets someone in an identical situation, Albert devises a plan to find some happiness in life.
"Albert Nobbs" is a film that lives of the creation of the main character by Glenn Close. Glenn Close who has always been an actor associated with characters of extreme traits, such as Adrian Lynne's "Fatal Attraction" and Stephen Frears' "Dangerous Liaisons", opts to create a character who is quiet and almost invisible. Albert does not call attention to himself, is non confrontational, and therefore almost imperceptible. The film itself almost falls to the same fate as the character - for a story who had such potential, the film feels remarkably devoid of conflict, spark or drama. Janet McTeer is an exception - she imbues her character with an energy and vivacity, which is something that the film itself also needs. The production design and overall acting are impeccable, but the film itself sadly falls short of something dramatically poignant.