Film and TV writer Hannah Price reviews Stephen Frears' critically acclaimed drama-comedy, Philomena.
Martin Sixsmith, played by Steve Coogan, is a political journalist, who comes across Philomena’s story by chance at a party. Although Sixsmith is not particularly drawn in by the story initially, upon meeting the Irish Catholic he is won round by the endearing woman and her fifty year old secret. Philomena had fallen pregnant at age 18 in Ireland, during a time where sex before marriage was considered a great sin. She was given over to the nuns by her disgraced parents, who ruled that she must not be allowed to keep her child. Like many other young women who sought the help of the convent, she found her child removed to a childless couple. The film depicts the five year journey, of the unlikely pair of Lee and Sixsmith, and their efforts to find Philomena’s lost son.
The true story is nothing short of harrowing, with the atrocious actions of the Catholic Church making it easier to look for a dry eye in the cinema than for someone in need of tissues. Throughout the film, small clips of home movies are played; a clever technique keeping the truth of the film constantly in the forefront of the audience’s mind.
The ingenious screenplay from Steve Coogan and Jeff Pope allow for wit and warmth throughout the heart-breaking story to create hope through humour. This is done through the charming relationship of the two main characters. Martin Sixsmith is a highly educated and weary man; Coogan’s Sixsmith has resemblances to his best known role Alan Partridge, with blunt and irritable traits. However, Philomena with her devout faith is movingly played by Judi Dench; she takes delight in what Sixsmith takes for granted. Their continuous differences yet growing affection create a jesting dynamic which is thoroughly enjoyable to watch. In places there are a few dubious Irish accents, but they are barely noticeable due to the quality of acting as a whole.
On the surface you might expect this film to be somewhat predictable, however due to Philomena’s inability to blame anyone other than herself for her loss, and her constant resilience and ability to take things in her stride, it is far from it.
Philomena comes at a time where films inspired by true stories are flourishing. Philomena is a testament to the empathetic power that a true story can bring. The director, Stephen Frears, balances this emotional weight with somewhat bitter sweet comedy to perfect a film carrying a strong message. Judi Dench adds yet another outstanding performance to her repertoire, carrying the movie with her exceptional portrayal of Philomena Lee.
★★★★
Featured Image: Philomena / BBC One
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