Albert Nobbs Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A shy, older lady pretends to be a man so she can save enough money to open a tobacco shop and marry a younger woman who is already sleeping with a jerk, and then things get sad.

🍿 Albert Nobbs: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to Albert Nobbs

The film introduces Albert Nobbs, played by Glenn Close, a seemingly unremarkable waiter in 19th-century Dublin. Albert works diligently at Morrison’s Hotel, run by the demanding Mrs. Baker. Unknown to everyone, Albert is a woman who has lived as a man for decades to survive in a society that offers few opportunities to women.

The Arrival of Hubert Page

Albert’s carefully constructed world is disrupted when Hubert Page, a painter, arrives at the hotel. Forced to share a room with Albert, Hubert discovers Albert’s secret. To Albert’s surprise, Hubert reveals that he is also a woman living as a man, married to another woman named Cathleen. This revelation plants a seed in Albert’s mind: the possibility of companionship.

Courting Helen Dawes

Inspired by Hubert’s example, Albert sets his sights on Helen Dawes, a young and attractive maid at the hotel. He envisions a future where they open a tobacco shop together. However, Helen is already involved with Joe Mackins, a manipulative handyman, creating a complicated love triangle filled with deception and unrequited affection.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Albert Nobbs (Glenn Close): A woman who has lived as a man for decades to survive and work as a butler in 19th-century Ireland.
• Hubert Page (Janet McTeer): Another woman living as a man, working as a painter, who inspires Albert to seek companionship.
• Helen Dawes (Mia Wasikowska): A young maid at the hotel who becomes the object of Albert’s affection and Joe’s exploitation.
• Joe (Aaron Taylor-Johnson): A manipulative and self-serving handyman who takes advantage of Helen and undermines Albert’s plans.
• Mrs. Baker (Pauline Collins): The stingy and controlling owner of Morrison’s Hotel where Albert works.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Albert Nobbs: “A life without decency is unbearable.” – This quote reflects Albert’s internal struggle and the rigid societal norms that dictate her life.
• Hubert Page: “You don’t have to be anything but what you are.” – Hubert’s encouraging words challenge Albert’s self-imposed limitations and offer a different perspective.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $8,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $3,014,696
• Worldwide Gross: $7,532,259

💥 Albert Nobbs Reviews

Personal Review

I found ‘Albert Nobbs’ to be a deeply moving film, even though the pacing was slow at times. Glenn Close’s portrayal of a woman trapped in a man’s world was truly heartbreaking. I especially felt for her during the beach scene, when she briefly experiences freedom, it’s a quiet moment of joy amidst so much sadness. It made me think about the lengths people go to for survival and acceptance. The ending was sad but not hopeless, thanks to Hubert’s character.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of period dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in LGBTQ+ themes”
  • “Admirers of Glenn Close’s acting”
  • “Audiences seeking character-driven stories”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Implied sexual assault”
  • “Brief nudity”
  • “Themes of gender identity”
  • “Poverty and social inequality”

Professional Reviews

• IMDb: “A woman living as a man, Albert Nobbs, struggles with love and identity in 19th century Dublin. While Glenn Close gives a convincing performance, the film is a slow-paced, and emotionally distant.
• Toronto International Film Festival: “Lavishly boring and a bit stuffy. Glenn Close’s performance, while good, isn’t extraordinary. Janet McTeer shines as Hubert Page, bringing life to every scene. Art direction is marvelous but inane dialogue and a slow pace can make the viewer want to give up after the first part of the movie
• IMDb: “Glenn Close is absolutely magnificent. Her acting is a testament to her outstanding talent and professionality. Although this movie contains many negative reviews, the movie itself makes you empathize with the character and brings up important themes.

Audience Reactions

Glenn Close’s transformation is mesmerizing and her acting is superb.: Viewers generally agree that the acting is the strongest aspect of the film, especially Glenn Close and Janet McTeer.

Some people think McTeer stole the show.: Although Glenn Close is amazing, McTeer’s acting is more captivating.

Overall Consensus: While the film may drag in some places, the performances, especially those of Glenn Close and Janet McTeer, are the standout qualities. It’s a thought-provoking film about identity, survival, and societal constraints, even though it is a tough watch.

Awards

1. Satellite Award (Best Actress)- 2011

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Glenn Close spent nearly 30 years trying to bring the story of Albert Nobbs to the screen, having first played the role on stage in 1982.”
• “Glenn Close not only starred as Albert Nobbs, but she also co-wrote the screenplay, wrote the original song ‘Lay Your Head Down’ for the film, and produced it.”
• “The film’s costume design aimed for authenticity in depicting the class distinctions of 19th-century Dublin.”

🖥️ How to Watch Albert Nobbs?

As of October 2024, ‘Albert Nobbs’ is available for rent or purchase on various platforms, including Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for availability.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Albert Nobbs, you might like these similar films:

• Yentl (1983): Similar theme of a woman disguising herself as a man to pursue opportunities unavailable to women in a restrictive society.
• Boys Don’t Cry (1999): Addresses gender identity and the challenges faced by those who don’t conform to societal expectations.
• The Danish Girl (2015): Portrays a similar theme of gender identity and the struggles with self-discovery and societal acceptance during a past era.
• Orlando (1992): Based on Virginia Woolf’s novel; explores gender fluidity across centuries.

🛒 Albert Nobbs Related Products

• The Singular Life of Albert Nobbs [Blu-ray]: Own the story in stunning high definition. The Blu-ray edition offers enhanced viewing experience and includes bonus content like behind-the-scenes footage.
• Albert Nobbs (Movie Poster): A high-quality print of the original movie poster. Perfect for decorating your home or office.
• Dublin Travel Guide – Explore Ireland: Plan a trip to Dublin and see the film’s locations. Discover the history and culture of Dublin.
• Albert Nobbs Script: Get the full script to view the full movie in its entirety. This will allow you to dive deeper into the movie’s depths.

🎧 Soundtrack

Albert Nobbs features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Lay Your Head Down” – performed by Sinéad O’Connor

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

‘Albert Nobbs’ interview with Glenn Close

Ever wondered what it’s like to spend years dedicated to a single role? Glenn Close shares her journey bringing Albert Nobbs to life, and it’s seriously inspiring. You have to hear her passion for this film!

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