Alan Bennett and Nicholas Hytner, who collaborated on the film adaptation of Bennett’s queer classic The History Boys, re-team for the wonderful and quirky true story, The Lady in the Van. Fifteen years ago, a homeless elderly woman called Mary Shepherd moved her battered van into Bennett’s driveway and refused to leave. Bennett let her stay, but quips “one seldom was able to do her a good turn without some thoughts of strangulation.” At first convinced Shepherd is a rude, curmudgeonly old woman, Bennett soon learns that there is more beneath the surface, an almost regal staunchness in the face of difficulties.
Maggie Smith relishes her role, turning Mary Shepherd into a tottering, staggering force of nature, determined to owe nothing to anybody. She gives a stellar performance, as do the supporting cast and cameos, many of whom will be remembered by keen eyes from The History Boys, including Jamie Parker and James Corden. A whimsical, comfortably heartwarming tale, The Lady In The Van is sure to become an audience favourite.
