I’ve had a double delight of films this past week. Philomena starring Judi Dench is a marvellous film which unfolds in unexpected ways. Basically it is the story of an Irish Mother who searches for her long-lost son. I don’t want to say too much about the plot because that would spoil it for you if you haven’t seen it. Let’s just say that if I had known the ins and outs, I probably wouldn’t have watched it and mine would have been the loss. It is one to watch over again.
It gets a nine and a half out of ten – fully five stars out of five. I wonder if you can guess why I am being a bit picky and not giving a full score?
Saving Mr Banks is an intensely moving, if slightly quirky film. It is the story of the making of Mary Poppins, but also gives background of the author’s early life. PL Travers reminds me of many a buttoned-up woman of the fifties and sixties. I know it doesn’t sound like a lot of fun, but in reality it just works.
Emma Thompson is exquisite as usual, and her attention to details and background research means that she delivers a compelling and true-to-life performance. Tom Hanks is totally believable as Walt Disney – his supporting players at Disney Studios are excellent.
It is also a 9/10 – but then I nearly always enjoy Disney films.
I have seen the first and was amazed at Mrs. Dench really became that Irish mother. She was excellent and stole every scene. I have not seen the second and will wait until it is available on TV.
I have loved Disney films all my life. My favorite was Robin Hood rat high starred on of your WWII heros.
I know my eyesight is going. I didn’t see the mistakes in my last comment until it published.