The Duchess (film) intent, exaggeration or ill will" and "Keira Knightley's performance gains new depth – she not only perfectly portrays a witty and feminine Georgiana early in the film, but also a caring mother, and an abandoned woman later on. Also remarkable in this role is Knightley's ability to portray the strengths, weaknesses, and the internal hurdles of Georgiana, as well as her internal contemplation." Film Ireland writes "It is a slow movie but it is well acted with Knightley and Fiennes suited to their roles, especially Fiennes who gives a formidable and powerful performance." Cameron Bailey, the co-chair of the Toronto
Mary Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire Mary Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire Mary Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, (29 July 1895 – 24 December 1988) was the Duchess of Devonshire from 1938 until her husband's death, and dowager duchess thereafter. She was born Lady Mary Alice Gascoyne-Cecil in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, the daughter of James Gascoyne-Cecil, 4th Marquess of Salisbury. She was married on 21 April 1917 to Edward Cavendish, Lord Hartington, who succeeded his father as 10th Duke of Devonshire in 1938, whereupon Mary became Duchess of Devonshire. She was Mistress of the Robes to Elizabeth II from 1953 to 1967 and Chancellor of the University of Exeter