Judi Dench is excellent in the title role of this British comedy, perfectly suited to her ageing but yet still feisty character, and Bob Hoskins has some solid moments too in support. With excellent costumes and sets, the film is able to provide a feel for both the Depression era and the spirit of vaudeville at its peak of popularity. It is a delight to watch, well done on pretty much all levels - even the stage numbers are entertaining to watch. It is also quite funny too at times, and touching at other times. Unfortunately one never really gets to know the characters particularly well, other than those fleshed out by Hoskins and Dench. This limits how involving it is to watch
but it is still amusing either way
and the film avoids being overly literal when it explores Dench's character.