An Indian clerk named Abdul Karim (Ali Fazal) travels to London to present Queen Victoria (Judi Dench) with a ceremonial coin for her Golden Jubilee. The pair form an unexpected bond upon meeting, but the lifelong friendship that develops is threatened by the disapproval of Victoria's inner circle. As the Queen contemplates what her life of service has meant and the restrictions it has placed on her, Abdul brings her joy as he indulges her fascination with the country she rules over from half a world away. Directed by Stephen Frears. Michael Gambon, Eddie Izzard, and Olivia Williams co-star.