The Young Victoria (2009)

Mega-hit “New Moon” had a sullen teenage heroine with zip spine and life interests outside of boys. Not so “The Young Victoria.” Raised as a prisoner inside her royal “don’t touch” estate, Victoria (Emily Blunt) is named queen of England in the middle of the night, before she’s 20. Suddenly, she must maneuver past a domineering mother (Miranda Richardson), a physically abusive controller (Mark Strong), various suitors (among them Rupert Friend as Albert) and a host of snake-like politicos (led by Paul Belamy), as she gains authority. No time to weep over absent boys. And what’s great about this drama, written by Julian Fellows (“Gosford Park”), is how often Victoria stumbles and reels, but gets back up. With Albert by her side -- not in front, but by her side. And, no, it’s not all roses or high drama. Victoria also knows that leading people is to make it about them, not you. Modern implications are high, if you’re paying attention. But maybe not for those in the Party of No. “Victoria” is hurt by a sheer lack of directness and boldness that raised the recent “An Education” and “Precious” to greatness. Still, a film worthy of true mega-hit status. B+