Hyde Park on Hudson: Movie Review

Hyde Park on Hudson: Movie Review

Cast: Bill Murray, Laura Linney, Olivia Colman, Samuel West, Olivia Williams
Director: Roger Michell

Bill Murray was nominated for a Golden Globe for his portrayal of US President FDR in this winsome little film.

It's 1939 America and Britain is in the grip of the War. But in America, FDR is growing closer to his sixth cousin, Margaret Suckley (Linney). As they gradually move closer to a romantic relationship, FDR's relative peace is shattered by the arrival of the King and Queen of Britain (West and Colman) who visit him at his upstate New York mansion.

Hyde Park on Hudson tells the story of that weekend's visit and the passions and problems it throws up for FDR as well as Margaret.

To say that Hyde Park on Hudson is pleasant may sound like an insult but it's not. It's just that it's quite dull despite being  perfectly affable in places. Murray channels a bit of relaxed lightness as FDR himself as he gets closer to Margaret (the film's based on her diaries which were uncovered). Linney herself is also fine as Suckley - and Colman is the spitting image of Queen Elizabeth in parts with her hoity toitiness perfectly pitched against the uncomfortable stutterings of her King.

But here's the thing about Hyde Park on Hudson - it's pretty unmemorable the minute it's over.

Linney lurks in the background and never really makes much of a splash as Margaret - and Murray never really suggests anything other than a casual approach to the president. It's a shame because the distant and remote performance he puts in forces you to not connect with FDR in places. Colman and West make a great team but there's never really any frisson of anything approaching tension or excitement as this weekend plays out. There's a lack of insight into the characters as well and it's particularly superficial in the approaches to them.

It may be beautifully costumed and replete with stunning period detail, but it's as light and fluffy as a feather blowing on the breeze - though if you're a fan of the likes of Downton Abbey and those kind of gentle films about manners, then this will be right up your street.

But while it's inoffensive, it's all a little too fanciful and nice to have any real lasting impact after the lights go up.

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