Jenna Coleman stars as young Queen Victoria in this British TV drama aired in the U.S. on PBS's Masterpiece, which chronicles her life and reign beginning with her ascension to the throne in 1837 at the age of 18. The first season covers the first few years of her rule as she learns about power and politics while fighting to maintain independence from her mother's private secretary, Sir John Conroy (Paul Rhys), and from her uncle, the Duke of Cumberland (Peter Firth). Elizabeth chooses Lord Melbourne (Rufus Sewell), the Whig Prime Minister, as her advisor, weathers scandal and ongoing shifts in the political winds, and marries Prince Albert (Tom Hughes), with the season coming to a close with the birth of their first child. The series deftly explores the politics surrounding Victoria (as powerful old men attempt to control the young queen), Albert's struggle to find a purpose within the kingdom, and Victoria's sharing of responsibility with her new husband. Intelligent and handsomely mounted (with some Upstairs, Downstairs melodramatic stories of staff members), the show is built on Coleman's bright, energetic portrayal of Victoria and her early history, which included a scandal that turned the public against her, and anti-German sentiment that led to an assassination attempt. Presenting all eight episodes from the 2016 debut season, extras include a behind-the-scenes featurette, a set tour, and cast interviews. Highly recommended. (S. Axmaker)
Victoria: The Complete First Season
PBS, 3 discs, 415 min., not rated, DVD: $49.99, Blu-ray: $59.99 Volume 32, Issue 3
Victoria: The Complete First Season
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