Victoria and Abdul – Relaxed Screening (PG)

Relaxed screenings are specifically designed for people who find regular performance settings challenging.  We extend a warm welcome to people who feel overwhelmed by the ordinary scheduled cinema screenings.  These relaxed screenings are open to anyone who would benefit from a relaxed, non-judgemental atmosphere including (but not limited to) people living with dementia; people with an Autism Spectrum Condition; people with learning difficulties; people with sensory or communication difficulties; parents with young babies; and anyone who feels they would benefit from a more supportive and inclusive film going experience.

About the film:

In the latter years of her extraordinary rule, Queen Victoria finds a much-needed friend in the most unlikely of circumstances.

At the ripe old age of 81, Queen Victoria (Judi Dench) has seen and done it all, or so she thinks. As the longest serving monarch in history, she has power and respect, but is also terribly lonely and has grown weary of her privileged life and the people that surround her.

When a young clerk named Abdul Karim (Ali Fazal) travels from India to serve the Queen during her Golden Jubilee, the pair take a shine to one another and quickly form a close bond. Completely unpretentious, and passionate about life and its endless opportunities, Abdul turns out to be the breath of fresh air Victoria needs, to escape her snobbish and stuffy inner circle.

But, whilst Abdul is teaching Victoria the new ways of the world, her household are plotting to destroy what they deem to be a toxic relationship, and the Queen must stamp her authority in a bid to reclaim her humanity.

Directed by Stephen Frears (The Queen, Philomena), Victoria and Abdul is based on the fascinating true story of the friendship penned by acclaimed playwright Lee Hall (Billy Elliot, War Horse).
Seven-time Oscar nominee, Judi Dench, is no stranger to royalty, having picked up the Academy Award for her role as Queen Elizabeth I in Shakespeare in Love (1999). Ali Fazal (Furious 7) plays Abdul, as he continues to juggle a successful Bollywood acting career with Hollywood and beyond.

Cert: PG

Running time: 112 mins