This one’s a little out of the way-back file, but if you haven’t seen this movie, and you have an interest in the origins of classic glamour and burlesque, then “Mrs Henderson Presents” is one film you don’t want to miss.
Judi Dench puts in a wonderful performance as Mrs Laura Henderson, who instead of retiring in her latter years purchases the Windmill Theatre, a delapidated London establishment that she restores to its former glory.
As German forces advance on London, and the dark depression of war descends on the country, Mrs Henderson provides a ray of light and joy in the form of elaborate stage shows featuring glamorous female nudity, complete with all the trimmings of the Art Deco era.
Predictably, the establishment seeks to shut her down, but the people themselves find the concept both intriguing and alluring in the face of the machine of war, and flock to the theatre in droves.
Visually, this film provides a unique insight into the glamour and glitz of a by-gone era.
Well worth a look.
