Suffragette Review - 2½ Stars

“Suffragette” reminds viewers of the harsh history of the women’s movement in England a hundred years ago.  After years of official foot-dragging, women demanding the vote turn radical—breaking windows, bombing postboxes and ultimately fire bombing the summer home of the Prime Minister.  We watch these events through the eyes  of washerwoman Maud Watts played by Carey Mulligan.  Trapped in a life of poverty working at a laundry alongside her husband, she gradually joins the movement, and pays a price.  Mulligan captures the hopelessness of her situation.  The excellent Helena Bonham Carter adds life as a movement leader who takes Mulligan under her care.  Meryl Streep makes a quick appearance as movement leader Emmeline Pankhurst.  Brendan Gleeson appears as a detective who takes an interest in Mulligan’s case even as he repeatedly arrests her.  The story builds to a moment in history that hits with a shock.  Does it deliver what it promises?  A harsh history lesson.  Is it entertaining?  Gives the viewer much to think about.  Is it worth the price of admission?  A worthy story.