It must be tough to be Judi Dench. Sure, being considered the world's greatest living actress probably has its advantages, but Dench's status as the classy, respectable grande dame of cinema has also pigeonholed her into roles as either classy or sassy grande dames. Her latest, Mrs. Henderson Presents, seems designed as little more than an Oscar-delivery system for Dench, and in that sense it succeeds admirably. As Laura Henderson, Dench cries, laughs, dresses in silly costumes and delivers stirring speeches. It's all tailored perfectly to her strengths, and never once does it look like she's stretching or challenging herself in any way.
Dench's Mrs. Henderson starts the film in pre-World War II London as a widow whose husband left her with money and not a lot to do. Bored and feeling adventurous, she buys an old theater, fixes it up and hires veteran stage manager Vivian Van Damm (Hoskins) to run the place. They put on a musical revue to mild success, but it's when Mrs. Henderson hits on an innovative idea—having the female stars go nude—that the place really takes off. When the war starts and the London Blitz begins, Mrs. Henderson's unassuming little theater becomes a beacon of hope for beleaguered city residents and a much-appreciated respite for weary soldiers.
The plot, although based on a true story, is hopelessly paint-by-numbers and monumentally hokey. At the same time, Dench is the world's greatest living actress, and she imbues Mrs. Henderson with a life and spirit that lifts the film above its predictability.
Hoskins is also in fine form, and the nude female forms are pretty fine as well. The film's simple message of hope in wartime is well taken, and anyone nostalgic for the era will find plenty to enjoy in the musical numbers. Although she's a long shot to win, Henderson has already netted Dench an Oscar nomination, and it looks like she had a good time playing the part. She probably has a good time every time she plays it.