What's Up - Your guide to what's happening in Fayetteville, AR this week!
Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/939366
T2 WHATS UP! February 11 - 17, 2018 BY KAT MULLIGAN TV Media T he British Monarchy is often explored through the cinematic lens, with the lives of numerous kings and queens regularly adapted for film and television. While the regal males of history may have a longer list of fictional represen- tation, the lengthy legacies of Britain's queens have arguably provided far more captivating and immersive narratives. In August 2016, British televi- sion powerhouse ITV contin- ued this tradition, giving the life of one of the kingdom's most beloved monarchs a stun- ning series treatment. Thank- fully, those of us in North America have also had the op- portunity to fall for this majes- tic, spirited queen, as the story of "Victoria" continues to un- fold Sunday, Feb. 11, on PBS. A part of "Masterpiece," "Victoria" is a dramatic televi- sion series adaptation of the queen's life, following Alexan- drina Victoria (Jenna Coleman, "Doctor Who") as she learns of the death of the king and her subsequent ascension to the throne at age 18. Still young, na- ive and not fully prepared, Vic- toria is determined to define her own reign and avoid the external influence of her moth- er's adviser, or others bent on persuading her. Early assis- tance from the dashing Lord Melbourne (Rufus Sewell, "The Illusionist," 2006) pre- pares her for both the court and the parliament, though it isn't long before concerns shift — though not her own — to the need for her to be wed and as- sisted by a husband. Enter Prince Albert of Saxe- Coburg and Gotha (Tom Hughes, "Cemetery Junction," 2010), the choice of Victoria's uncle who initially seems an undesirable choice. Their first meeting is lukewarm, but as time passes, Albert is able to introduce Victoria to the world beyond the throne, pro- viding an education on the poverty and trials of her sub- jects and encouraging her to be the kind of monarch who will finally be a voice for the people. With a newfound Jenna Coleman and Tom Hughes star in "Victoria" Vibrant Victoria continued on page T10 TV FEATURE