Here’s a look atThe Lady in the Van, the upcoming film adaptation ofAlan Bennett’s largely beloved 1999 play of the same name, which charts the author’s own interactions with a cranky homeless woman living in an ages-old van who proves to be well-educated and self-reliant, for the most part. (I’m really, really trying not to think ofChris Farley’s Matt Foley screaming about his van down by the river at this moment, so please, bare with me.) The film version is directed byNicholas Hytner, who directed the origianl stage production of Bennett’s play and came to prominence by directing the film version of another widely loved Bennett play,The History Boys. Bennett penned the screenplay for the film as well, and the cast, led byMaggie Smithas the titular character, includes at least two of Hytner’s history boys inJames CordenandDominic Cooper.
On top of Cooper, Smith, and Corden, the film includesAlex Jennings, who you may remember as Prince Charles inStephen Frears' wonderfulThe Queen, plays the character of Bennett, whileJim Broadbent,Roger Allam, andFrances de la Tourfill in some unclear supporting roles in this seemingly amiable tale. Hytner has proven himself a solid hand with this kind of material, especially inThe History Boys, but he’s also proved a more-than-competent helmer with the involving dancing dramedyCenter StageandThe Madness of King George; he’s also, sadly, the man behind the abhorrentThe Object of My Affection.The Lady in the Vanlooks like more of a sure-bet, actor-driven comedy with a kick of sentimentality in its end, which at least suggests there won’t be anything outright objectionable in this film, though who knows really? The film has yet to secure stateside distribution but this is exactly the kind of material that does well in the winter months, a light, heartwarming comedy led by a reliable character actor. Regardless, the film will see release on November 13th in UK cinemas, as well as in Ireland.
Here’s the trailer forThe Lady in the Van:
