Victoria and Abdul (PG-13) ★★★

Judi Dench and Ali Fazal star in ‘Victoria and Abdul.’  Photo Credit: Focus Features

Victoria and Abdul is historical fiction that’s based on the book of the same name.

In 1887 a young Indian clerk named Abdul Karim played by Ali Fazal becomes an unlikely friend to Queen Victoria who’s played by Judi Dench. He becomes her teacher, her spiritual advisor, and her devoted friend.

As their friendship deepens, the Queen begins to see the world through new eyes and joyfully reclaims her compassion.

The Bottom-Line? Judi Dench is fabulous as Queen Victoria! She’s the reason to see this film. It’s funny, entertaining all sprinkled with bits of history throughout. I thoroughly enjoyed the natural chemistry between the Queen and Abdul.

It’s always ambitious for characters to age in a film, and you’ll see outstanding examples here.

Cast: Judi Dench (Queen Victoria), Ali Fazal (Abdul Karim)

Credits: Directed by Stephen Frears and written by Lee Hall.

Studio: Focus Features

Run Time: 1 hour 52 minutes