From Stephen Frears, the director of the charming Philomena (2013, also starring Judi Dench), the bittersweet Florence Foster Jenkins (2016), and the moving The Queen (2006), comes the little known, incredible story of Victoria & Abdul (2017) starring the incomparable and delightful Dame Judi Dench. The first trailer just recently dropped and it looks absolutely phenomenal and inspiring. I had no idea this movie was coming out and now I am entranced and cannot wait until September!

Based on the very much true story, the film follows Queen Victoria and her unexpected, trusting relationship with a visiting Indian clerk named, you guessed it, Abdul, who dares to look her in the eyes when he first comes to her throne (as seen in the trailer below). Naturally, some of those surrounding and protecting the Queen do not take too kindly to their soon to be budding relationship.

It is without question that Judi Dench is one of the most talented actresses in the world, in everything she has done and everything she continues to do, and this film looks to be no exception. Dench is a personal favorite of mine and I always seek out the films that she appears in, whether she is taking on a more lighthearted or more dramatic role. It is interesting to note however that this is not the first time Judi Dench has played Queen Victoria. She also portrayed her in Mrs. Brown (1997).

From about 1 minute and 40 seconds in through to the end of this trailer, Judi Dench’s speech and performance alone is already Oscar-worthy and Oscar-winning, and just makes you wanna cheer.

Victoria & Abdul stars Judi Dench, Ali Fazal, Michael Gambon (Dumbledore in Harry Potter Years 3-7), Olivia Williams, Eddie Izzard, Simon Callow, and Tim Pigott-Smith, and will hit theaters this fall on September 22, 2017.

Check out the first trailer below!

Victoria & Abdul Trailer