Review of Crown Matrimonial

I was quite taken with the performance by Greer Garson and ensemble in this Hallmark Hall of Fame historical drama about the behind-the- scenes goings-on during the weeks in 1936 when Edward VIII proclaimed his love for Wallis Simpson. It takes place during the weeks following the death of his father, King George V. Garson was 70 years old portraying Queen Mary at almost precisely the same age. She is in every scene. It's a great performance - NOT available (yet) on DVD - but if you can see it (at the Paley Center in either NYC or LA) - you will not be disappointed. The supporting cast of Peter Barkworth as the 'reluctant' King Edward VIII, Andrew Ray as 'Bertie' the Duke of York and Amanda Reiss as the Duchess of York (we later know her as the Queen Mum) are terrific! But it is Greer Garson who carries the entire play. Beyond her Academy Award-nominated performances at the height of her career ('39-'45), this is the finest performance of the second part of her acting career.