Her Majesty (2001)

What makes it different from others?

recommended

Good , But It Is Overrated By Some

A Major Disappointment

Like "Rabbit Proof Fence" (another Aussie film) this one really has a natural and touching view on those of us "white people" who arbitrarily converted so many parts of the world. To my knowledge, none have been done in this manner of the progression of our US-Hollywood would frown on that.I saw it on Encore channel and have saved it to share (as also the afore-mentioned) with friends and family. This type of film is seldom screened where any of them might be able to view it.Both of the films have protagonists who are repressed and fighting against the issues which are considered "important" by the authorities of their time.

"Her Majesty" is a film that is appropriate for all ages. It shows the value of sticking up for what is is important. It plays havoc with the town gossips who are led by a woman of money and power, but who has no grasp with the true meaning of the people who occupied the land before her. Yes, she and her cronies are the hens in "Music Man" and I felt the young Elizabeth was going up to Boo Radley's door as in "To Kill A Mockingbird," but the universal themes of sticking up for what is important and having condescension within one family are obvious existent realities.The only problem I had was with the character of the brother who I felt went over the limit in antagonizing his sister; indeed, beyond sibling rivalry. If he had been the boy next door, or a latent admirer of Elizabeth, I might have understood his vindictiveness.

This is an excellent film Of a young girl, Elizabeth who thinks that all people are equals no matter what race of gender or age you are. Queen Elizabeth II is her role model, her idol she looks up to her and when it is announced that she will be visiting New Zealand she would love nothing more than for the Queen to come to her small town of Middleton so she sends letter after letter asking exactly that and when the queens Itinerary is announced, To everyones surprise and pleasure she WILL be visiting Middleton. Amongst all this Elizabeth has befriended an old Maori woman And against her fathers will visits her each day. She learns of the conflict between Moari and Europeans when the Europeans first arrived in New Zealand.

I saw this movie last week with my 12 and 7 year-old-daughters. The story, characters and locations were all just wonderful. The film was endearing and carried a great moral, without being preachy. The comedy in the film works, the drama works, and neither is too much or too corny. The characters are well developed and the audience clearly identifies with the protagonist, 11-year-old Elizabeth. The crowd actually broke out in cheers when the mean older brother finally gets his - something I haven't experienced in a movie in years. I especially enjoyed seeing Vicky Haughton again after her fabulous performance in Whale Rider. I highly recommend this film for everyone...yes even men without kids. The screening was followed by a Q&A with writer/director Mark Gordon. He is traveling the country, screening the movie, and asked that we spread the word, which I am by posting this notice. I wouldn't bother doing this merely on the request of the filmmaker, but the movie spoke for itself. I made a mental note to post a great review as soon as the ending credits started.I've been racking my brain trying to remember the movie this one reminded me and I finally thought of it. The movie is like a perfected version of "A Christmas Story". The comedy is similarly good, but the message this movie sends, and the quality of the filmmaking goes well beyond.Anyway, take your kids and enjoy!