Weekend Movies - The Last Station and Young Victoria

The Last Station

Helen Mirren
Christopher Plummer
Paul Giamatti
Anne-Marie Duff
James McAvoy

(2009)

Netflix Summary:

Set during the last year of Russian novelist Leo Tolstoy's life, this biopic explores the fractious relationship between Tolstoy (Christopher Plummer) and his wife (Helen Mirren), as he embraces a life of asceticism. Paul Giamatti co-stars as impassioned Tolstoy devotee Vladimir Chertkov, with James McAvoy playing the aging writer's assistant, Valentin, who is caught in the middle of various struggles.

I enjoyed this movie more that I thought I would.  I knew very little of the time period and the people but was fascinated by the interpersonal relationships and the drama that was at the center of  Sofya's and Tolstoy's lives. 

Also didn't know that Tolstoy launched an anti-materialist movement - funny what you learn by watching movies.

The Young Victoria

Emily Blunt
Rupert Friend
Paul Bettany
Miranda Richardson

(2009)

Netflix Summary:

Eighteen-year-old British royal Victoria ascends to the throne and is romanced by future husband Prince Albert in this lush period film that chronicles the early years of the British monarch's larger-than-life reign.

I love the atmosphere of this movie.  I loved seeing the strength of a young woman that had been very sheltered and the devotion that she had to the true love of her life. 

They lead their country as a united team and after his very young death, Queen Victoria continued to layout his clothing until the day that she died.  That was the most heartbreaking part of the movie.  To know that her love for him knew no end.