Close plays Nobbs, a female dressing as a male butler in 19th century Ireland. As she dreams of opening her own shop with the money she saved over the years, she finds herself in need of a spouse. But since she is in reality a female, some unforeseen complications ensue.
Although Close is transformed marvelously and convincingly into a male, the movie suffers progressively from the lack of a compelling narrative and suspense. It just beautifully stumbles from one unfortunate or silly event to the next leaving little memorable scenes in its wake. Even though the role of Janet McTeer also posing as a man, is lauded, the role is particularly unconvincing causing some irritation. Suggesting Close should be up for an Oscar for this movie is ridiculous; she barely has 20 lines in the film and is simply a vehicle for a very convincing make up job.
Although Close is transformed marvelously and convincingly into a male, the movie suffers progressively from the lack of a compelling narrative and suspense. It just beautifully stumbles from one unfortunate or silly event to the next leaving little memorable scenes in its wake. Even though the role of Janet McTeer also posing as a man, is lauded, the role is particularly unconvincing causing some irritation. Suggesting Close should be up for an Oscar for this movie is ridiculous; she barely has 20 lines in the film and is simply a vehicle for a very convincing make up job.