Queen Victoria's Empire Engines of Change (2001– ) Online

This is the first in a mini-series of four films about the reign of Queen Victoria. It's narrated by Donald Sutherland and is a quality production throughout.

Not at all surprisingly, this first episode is about the beginnings of Victoria's reign. It tells a tiny bit about her life before assuming the throne as well as the context for her ascendancy in 1837. Most of it, however, is about her marriage to Albert. Surprising to most would be learning that the early years were not good ones--the office wasn't held in great esteem and Albert was far less popular. Among the things discussed were the prime ministers, Gladstone and Disraeli as well as Albert's triumph at the Great Exhibition in 1851.

All in all, like most PBS documentaries, this one is quality throughout and looks like a very expensive film. High quality film work and an interesting script make this one worth seeing.