I found this treasure of a movie quite by accident. It was listed in the 'Free Movies' section of my cable menu.

Unfortunately, the title does not stand out or attract attention and that's too bad. This movie is a gem and is watchable more than once. So far I've seen it three times.

It stars the wonderful Judi Dench and is based on the supposedly true story of Queen Victoria's friendship with John Brown, her late husband's (Prince Albert) manservant. After Albert's death, Queen Victoria was inconsolable and became a virtual recluse until John Brown became a member of her staff.

Some have hinted that their friendship was more than platonic and, fortunately, the movie does not address that. Instead we get to see pure love develop between two totally different people...the gruff and outspoken Brown and the rigid, proper and grief=stricken Victoria. The scenes in which Brown's outrageous behavior make the Queen smile, then finally laugh, are priceless.

It just goes to show you that you can't judge a book (or movie) by its cover or title. 'Mrs. Brown' is one of those gems that is totally satisfying and leaves you with a smile as the final credits run.

I agree completely - great movie, poor title! It also stars the comedian, Billy Connolly, as John Brown, proving just how versatile he can be. Connolly's style of humour is often crude, and doesn't appeal to me, but in the serious 'John Brown' role he is excellent.

I just re-watched this movie about a week ago. Judi Dench was just marvelous, (as always), and, I agree, it is a most satisfying movie. A very tender love story.

Have you seen "Iris" (about Iris Murdoch and her husband)? It is another treasure from Dame Judi, although it is a heartbreaking film to watch.

I always love Judi Dench!

Dench got her first Oscar nomination for that film - she was expected to win it but, I'm sure, loss to someone lesser. Oh, God...now I remember: she lost to Helen Hunt .

Both "Ladies in Lavender" and "Mrs Henderson Presents" are two of the best films I have watched in a long time.

Judi Dench is brilliant and teamed with Maggie Smith in the first - absolutely magic.

She would make a great Queen Mother, if they ever made a film of her life.

Mrs. Brown is a wonderful movie, one that I've seen several times. Another 'sleeper' that the general public doesn't seem to be interested in ...
And, to add, I really was beginning to think I was the only human being to have ever seen it, till I happily saw the topic listed !

I'm another one who saw it and liked it - great performances, all round.

Tea With Mussolini is also great with her - great ensemble cast.