LADY IN THE VAN film review

– By Mark Glass –

Fact-based dramedy provides another fine vehicle – literally and figuratively – for Maggie Smith

3 stars out of 5 (PG-13)

Last week’s review of 45 Years was largely praise of the performance and career of its star, Charlotte Rampling, who deserves to be listed with the likes of this character dramedy’s eponymous star, Maggie Smith. She plays the Colorful Character in a 1970s’ middle-class London neighborhood, maintaining considerable dignity and wit while living an a rusting van, and depending on the kindness of others, without ever seeming the least bit demeaned by her circumstances. Stiffest upper lip on the block. The kindest of those Others is shy playwright Alan Bennett, who wrote this fact-based reminiscence, and wisely chose Alex Jennings to portray his younger self. Jennings is mostly known for working in British TV and theater, but evokes memories Michael Crawford or Alec Guiness in this role.

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