Philomena

Friends of the Hyland -Philomena:

The film viewed on January 12 was Philomena. Nineteen members met at the Wortley Roadhouse afterwards for refreshments and lively discussion. There were two tables. One gave it about 4 out of 5 and the other gave it about 8 out of 10. About the same and all agreeing that it was a film not to be missed.

 It is based on a true story of Philomema Lee (Judi Dench) who, at the age of 14, gave birth to a baby boy and was forced by the Catholic authorities to give him up for adoption. She has spent 50 years trying to find him. Martin Sixsmith (Steve Coogan), a cynical journalist, helps her. The search takes them to North America and back. Martin Sixsmith wrote the book on which the film is based, in 2009.

The film is about the relationship that develops between these two as the story is gradually revealed. It brings laughter and tears to the audience. Philomena, the simple, Irish-Catholic woman, reveals depths of understanding and humour. Her training as a nurse gives her practical knowledge of the world that startles people who think her old and out of touch. The journalist Martin Sixmith, by contrast, is highly educated, cosmopolitan and feeling depressed, but is determined to solve the mystery of her son's whereabouts. The commonsense, warmth and compassion displayed by Philomena contrast sharply with the reserve and occasional rudeness displayed by Martin.   Her capacity to forgive is inspiring. We agreed that Judi Dench played her flawlessly and predicted an Academy Award nomination.

For some, the story brought back memories of education by the nuns and the harsh discipline sometimes imposed.  Others remembered the huge stigma attached to unwed pregnant girls, and friends who had dropped out of sight after becoming pregnant.  Everyone agreed that the inspiring cinematography enhanced the story being told.  It was a moving film - even for those seeing it for the second time.

                                            Anne Hutchinson, Ros Moorhead