Hyde Park on Hudson Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

FDR juggles his mistress, wife, and the King and Queen of England during a single chaotic weekend where hot dogs determine the fate of the free world.

🍿 Hyde Park on Hudson: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Daisy’s Introduction to FDR

In 1939, Margaret ‘Daisy’ Suckley, a distant cousin of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, is invited to visit him at his Hyde Park estate. Daisy is a shy, unassuming woman, living a quiet life with her aunt. FDR, seeking companionship and respite from the pressures of his office, finds comfort in Daisy’s gentle nature.

An Unlikely Romance Blooms

As Daisy spends more time with FDR, a romantic relationship develops between them. Their connection is portrayed as tender and intimate, providing FDR with emotional support and a sense of normalcy. Daisy is drawn into FDR’s world, navigating the complexities of his public life and his existing relationships with other women.

The Royal Visit

The King and Queen of England, George VI and Elizabeth, make a historic visit to the United States, seeking President Roosevelt’s support in the face of rising tensions in Europe. FDR hosts the royal couple at his Hyde Park estate, showcasing American hospitality and attempting to forge a strong alliance. Daisy witnesses the political maneuvering and cultural differences firsthand.

Daisy’s Realization and Acceptance

During the royal visit, Daisy becomes aware of the full extent of FDR’s relationships with other women, including his secretary Missy LeHand. This revelation causes her emotional turmoil, but she ultimately comes to accept her role in FDR’s life. The film suggests that Daisy provided a unique and valuable connection to FDR, even within the context of his other relationships.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• FDR (Bill Murray): The charming and complex President of the United States who juggles political duties with personal affairs.
• Daisy (Laura Linney): A distant cousin of FDR who becomes his lover and the narrator of the story, providing an intimate perspective on his life.
• Eleanor (Olivia Williams): FDR’s wife, a strong and independent First Lady who maintains a complex relationship with her husband.
• Bertie (Samuel West): The King of England who seeks support from FDR amid growing global tensions, forming an unlikely bond.
• Elizabeth (Olivia Colman): The Queen of England, who accompanies her husband and navigates the unfamiliar customs of America with grace.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Bertie: “But, to answer your question, Elizabeth, I *am* going to eat a hot dog – five hot dogs – TEN!… I’M GOING TO SHOVE THEM IN MY MOUTH, stick two up my nostrils, two more in my ears, and walk around so that people can take pictures of the King of England with hot dogs hanging out of his orifices!” – King George VI jokingly expresses his willingness to embrace American culture, despite his initial reservations, highlighting the cultural exchange.
• FDR: “Can you imagine the disappointment when they find out what we really are?” – FDR expresses his insecurity and vulnerability to King George, acknowledging the weight of their public personas.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $11 million
• Domestic Gross: $6.38 million
• Worldwide Gross: $10.98 million

💥 Hyde Park on Hudson Reviews

Personal Review

I found ‘Hyde Park on Hudson’ to be a charming, if slightly uneven, historical snapshot. Bill Murray surprised me as FDR, capturing his charisma and warmth. The scenes with the King and Queen were amusing, but the film felt like it was juggling too many stories at once. I enjoyed the peek into FDR’s personal life, but wished the movie had a clearer focus.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of historical dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in Franklin D. Roosevelt’s life”
  • “Those who enjoy character-driven stories”
  • “People who appreciate British and American history”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Implied sexual content”
  • “Brief depiction of physical intimacy”
  • “Smoking”

Professional Reviews

• That’s My Entertainment: “While Bill Murray embodies FDR believably, the script feels unfocused, shifting between Roosevelt’s affair and the Royal visit. The film hints at deeper themes but struggles to fully explore them.
• Movie Muse Reviews: “A pleasant yet inconsequential film that presumes interest solely on the basis that it depicts famous political figures. While it looks great, the story lacks conflict and acute insight. Bill Murray is inspired in his role, but this movie is ultimately forgettable.
• Love Your Movies: “Bill Murray delivers a captivating performance as FDR, showcasing his wit and charm. While the story meanders at times, Murray’s portrayal, along with Laura Linney’s, elevates this film beyond its rhythmic issues.

Audience Reactions

Bill Murray’s portrayal of FDR brings a human touch to a historical figure.: Viewers appreciated the film’s lighthearted tone and the glimpse into a unique moment in history.

Olivia Colman stands out as the Queen.: The ensemble cast was praised for capturing the essence of their historical counterparts.

Overall Consensus: A pleasant but unfocused historical dramedy, carried by strong performances but lacking a compelling narrative.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film is loosely based on the diaries and letters of Margaret ‘Daisy’ Suckley, discovered after her death in 1991, which revealed the extent of her close relationship with Franklin D. Roosevelt.”
• “Bill Murray’s casting as FDR was initially met with skepticism, but he received praise for his nuanced and understated portrayal of the president.”
• “The movie was primarily filmed in England, despite being set in upstate New York, due to financial incentives and available resources.”
• “The picnic scene featuring hot dogs was a significant historical event, as it represented an attempt to bridge cultural differences between the American and British leaders.”

🖥️ How to Watch Hyde Park on Hudson?

You can stream Hyde Park on Hudson on platforms like Prime Video, and Apple TV. It is also available for purchase or rental on various online platforms. Check your preferred streaming service for availability in your region.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Hyde Park on Hudson, you might like these similar films:

• The King’s Speech (2010): Focuses on King George VI and his struggle with a speech impediment, covering events preceding his visit to FDR in ‘Hyde Park on Hudson’.
• Sunrise at Campobello (1960): A historical drama centered on FDR’s battle with polio.
• The Queen (2006): Explores the relationship between the British monarchy and the public, similar to how ‘Hyde Park on Hudson’ examines the relationship between FDR and the American people.
• Downton Abbey (2010-2015): Offers a glimpse into the lives of the British aristocracy during a similar historical period.

🛒 Hyde Park on Hudson Related Products

• FDR by Jean Edward Smith: A comprehensive biography of Franklin D. Roosevelt, providing deep insights into his life, presidency, and complex relationships.
• The Crown: The Complete Collection (DVD): Explore the reign of Queen Elizabeth II with depth and historical accuracy. Each season delves into significant events, political intrigues, and personal relationships.
• Hot Dog Roller and Warmer: For that movie night picnic feel – high-quality hot dog roller to recreate King George’s ‘Hot Dog Diplomacy’ at home. 8 Hot Dogs At A Time. Non-Stick.
• American Experience: FDR (DVD): An in-depth documentary from the acclaimed PBS series, offering a detailed and nuanced exploration of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s life and presidency.

🎧 Soundtrack

Hyde Park on Hudson features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Moonlight Serenade” – performed by Glenn Miller and His Orchestra

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

On Cinema (S1. Ep. 106): ‘Playing for Keeps’ and ‘Hyde Park on Hudson’

Want to hear a funny and insightful take on ‘Hyde Park on Hudson’? This review from On Cinema is hilarious, and actually makes some really good points about the movie that I hadn’t considered before. Definitely worth a watch!

✨ Rate