Before “Albert Nobbs” even played Telluride or TIFF, the word on the street was that Glenn Close was an early Oscar favorite thanks to her turn in the film, an adaptation of a stage play for which she won an Obie award back in 1982. The actress had been shepherding the project along for years, and finally had it realized with a cast that includes Mia Wasikowska, Aaron Johnson, Brendan Gleeson and in a very brief role Jonathan Rhys Meyers. And while our man in Telluride was enamored with the film, this writer caught up with it in Toronto and was far less enthused. And while Close is fine in the titular lead role, if restrained in what is an almost overly muted performance, for our money, the real star of the film is Janet McTeer.
It’s hard to talk too much about her character without giving things away — which this clip from Flix kind of does — but the actress plays Hubert, a man the titular Albert Nobbs runs into with whom he shares a common secret. McTeer is really the life of the period movie, bringing a plethora of wit, charm and emotion that seems entirely missing from the Rodrigo García directed picture otherwise. More than Close, McTeer captured our hearts quicker and by the time the credits rolled, we actually wished the film was more about her character than Nobbs. And while we’re sure Close will be heavily pushed for a nomination, Roadside Attractions should seriously considered an equally strong effort for McTeer for Supporting Actress as well.
“Albert Nobbs” will hit theaters in December. You can check out the clip below, but be warned, it does have a reveal that might be best saved for later.
