Interpretation of Portia

I found this production of MOV interesting in that Portia is played by Joan Plowright - best described as an "intelligent and comely" actress. How does it affect you, the viewer, considering the bland appearance of Shakespeare's most successful female? I find it downright disturbing, but nonetheless unique, to have this ugly duckling play such a powerful and morally strong character. Does anybody think the Victorian setting has anything to do with this casting decision?

Switzerland: "They let everybody do their fighting for them while they ski and eat chocolate."