Comedy,Drama,Music
United Kingdom,United States of America
"Topsy-Turvy" is a 1999 historical drama film directed by Mike Leigh. The story is based on the real-life working relationship between Gilbert and Sullivan, who were known for their collaboration on a series of successful comic operas during the late Victorian era.
The film starts with the opening night of their new production, "Princess Ida," in 1884. Despite their previous successes, the show is met with mixed reviews, and the pair's professional and personal relationship begins to deteriorate. The conflict between the two is compounded by Gilbert's dissatisfaction with the state of British theatre and his desire to create more serious works.
Their struggles are further complicated by financial difficulties and their personal lives. Sullivan is struggling with a failing relationship with a former chorus girl, while Gilbert struggles to maintain his marriage to his wife, who has grown increasingly distant.
As their creative differences grow, their producer and friends try to intervene and get the pair to work together once again. Despite their initial resistance, Gilbert and Sullivan eventually collaborate on "The Mikado," a Japanese-themed opera that becomes one of their greatest hits. The film culminates with the opening night of "The Mikado" in 1885, which is met with critical and commercial acclaim, and the pair's reconciliation.
The film features detailed depictions of the rehearsal, production, and staging of Gilbert and Sullivan's works, as well as their personal lives and the social and cultural milieu of Victorian-era London. The film was praised for its attention to detail, historical accuracy, and strong performances, with Jim Broadbent and Allan Corduner receiving particular acclaim for their portrayals of Gilbert and Sullivan, respectively.
