So as it turned out, circumstances resulted in me taking a bit of a break, from the blog at least, let's call it a forced break - work, family sleep... Have missed it, but am back, happy to be watching (as I always am) but now understanding that a movie a day may be a lofty ask (unless someone wants to pay me to do this, just kidding unless there is someone out there, reading this, who wants to pay me :)...
So for our return we visit the true life story of Philomena Lee (Judi Dench), the story of an elderly woman who is searching for the son she was forced to give up for adoption by the convent at which she was sent in disgrace when pregnant. Helping her in her search is a disgraced government servant Martin Sixsmith (Steve Coogan), who is forced to return to his journalistic route and in doing so has deigned to take on this human interest story. What unfolds is a moving tale of the strength of family, love and forgiveness which will resonate even with the hardest of hearts.
Can you ever go wrong with Judi Dench? I want to say that this old biddy, okay I said it, has established herself as movie magic gold, and for our generation, she seems to have achieved this at an age when most actresses are complaining that the roles are drying up. I can't think of reference to Dame Judi as a younger actress, Maggie Smith Yes, Judi Dench No... And so it is that Judi Dench gets another Oscar nod for Best Actress in this little movie.
It's a wonderfully understated piece (deservedly nominated for Best Picture), and the chemistry between the two principles is deliciously dry as they go forward on their journey, both of them set for discovery, for redemption, for peace, for forgiveness of self and others. The story is an old one, an old tale of the injustices the church has visited upon its subjects, of mothers searching for their children, and as the subject matter is so evoking of response, I found myself heartbreakingly angry at the injustices that do exist, and in admiration of the little old woman who is so trusting of her "superiors" and of the belief she has in the best of people.
Great addition to the viewed repertoire, and of the tradition of brilliant british cinema...
59 down - only 4 movies left from this years Oscar batch!
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