Mrs. Brown (1997)

90% of critics liked it
(40 reviews)
75% of users liked it
(7,503 ratings)

The ruler of England discovers the value of common friendship in this historical drama. After the death of her husband Prince Albert, Queen Victoria (Judi Dench) is despondent, and she remains in mourning for two years after Albert's passing. When one of her servants suggests that a daily ride on… More The ruler of England discovers the value of common friendship in this historical drama. After the death of her husband Prince Albert, Queen Victoria (Judi Dench) is despondent, and she remains in mourning for two years after Albert's passing. When one of her servants suggests that a daily ride on horseback might be a tonic for the Queen's health and spirits, a Scotsman named John Brown (Billy Connolly) is hired as her guide and groom. At first, the Queen shows no interest in riding, though Brown readies a horse for her each day; finally, after several days, Mr. Brown speaks frankly to the Queen, announcing, "Honest to God, I never thought I'd see you in such a state!" While her court is shocked, the Queen is refreshed that someone would speak to her so directly. Soon the Queen is riding with Mr. Brown every morning, and she discovers him to be a friend and confidante who will speak to her as a person and not as a potentate. However, many are shocked by their relationship, believing that the commoner Mr. Brown is using his friendship for political advantage -- or worse, that he's become her lover. ~ Mark Deming, Rovi

Rating, Runtime: PG, 1 hr. 30 min.
Directed By: John Madden
Written By: Jeremy Brock
Genres: Drama, Romance

In Theaters: Jul 18, 1997 Wide
On DVD: Apr 22, 1998

Critic Reviews

Emanuel Levy, Variety
Centering on a lesser-known chapter in the reign of Queen Victoria, this richly detailed drama about her intimate relationship with her servant that scandalized the country is extremely well-acted; Judi Dench deserves an Oscar nomination
Michael Dequina, TheMovieReport.com
A highly resonant testament to the redemptive power of love--one that transcends traditional romantic definitions.
Rich Cline, Shadows on the Wall
terrific performances make it a must-see
Steve Crum, Video-Reviewmaster.com
Fine Judi Dench starring drama.
Dennis Schwartz, Ozus' World Movie Reviews
This discreet drama failed to get to me emotionally.
Luanne Brown, Hometownsource.com
Interesting, but didn't love it.

Read all 6 critic reviews

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Featured Audience Ratings

Ross C

A fascinating period drama of the post-Albert era in Victorian Britain. The start is very slow, with little dialogue emphasising the coldness of the Queen's state of mind. But as she warms to her new Scottish servant, John Brown, played perfectly by Billy Connolly, an engrossing… More
A fascinating period drama of the post-Albert era in Victorian Britain. The start is very slow, with little dialogue emphasising the coldness of the Queen's state of mind. But as she warms to her new Scottish servant, John Brown, played perfectly by Billy Connolly, an engrossing story emerges.
Matthew R

A well acted and crafted movie that takes us back to the late 1800's where Queen Victoria falls for John Brown a Scott, and how there close relationship leads to scandal in Britian. Judi Dench plays Victoria flawlessly. Mrs. Brown is a great flim based on facts. Story: A-… More
A well acted and crafted movie that takes us back to the late 1800's where Queen Victoria falls for John Brown a Scott, and how there close relationship leads to scandal in Britian. Judi Dench plays Victoria flawlessly. Mrs. Brown is a great flim based on facts. Story: A- Acting: A Direction: A- Visuals: A- Overall: A- ***1/2 out of 4 stars
Alec B

Its one of Dench's finest performances and Billy Connolly is equally amazing. It would be easy to over sentimentalize the events that are depicted here, but we are given an equal dosage of moments with Victoria acting like she has a heart as well as her more well known icy… More
Its one of Dench's finest performances and Billy Connolly is equally amazing. It would be easy to over sentimentalize the events that are depicted here, but we are given an equal dosage of moments with Victoria acting like she has a heart as well as her more well known icy disposition in full force (as when she flies into a rage over the desire of the Irish to have these things called 'rights'). Its a sadly little seen film, which is disappointing because Director John Madden's less interesting projects (i.e. 'Shakespeare in Love') get far more attention.
Sunil J

Judi Dench is perfect as Queen Victoria.
Jason R

Billy Connolly is one of my favorite actors and he gives one of his best performances as John Brown the loyal servant/bodyguard to Queen Victoria. Judi Dench also gives a memorable and outstanding performance as the troubled Queen Victoria who begins this relationship with Brown, one… More
Billy Connolly is one of my favorite actors and he gives one of his best performances as John Brown the loyal servant/bodyguard to Queen Victoria. Judi Dench also gives a memorable and outstanding performance as the troubled Queen Victoria who begins this relationship with Brown, one that as years pass turns into love, but eventually ends in heartbreak.
Barry L

Brilliant and very poignant.
Ina S

Perfect little film, Judi Dench is probably the goddess of acting, actually. Connolly is also absolutely fantastic. Great period piece.