Philomena

[alythonian]

I am not a Steve Coogan fan, he generally annoys me, but he was exceptional in this film which he also had a hand in producing etc. Judy Dench was also phenomenal.

I knew the story and Martin Sixsmith's book before I saw this but it didn't detract from the emotion that runs through the whole film. It drew me in and captivated me in the wrong of it all.

A simply outstanding film and one of the best I've seen this year.

10/10.

[jcolombi]

Most of what I would say has already been said! So not going to re-iterate everything

9/10

[cliveas]

Exceptionally well balanced screenplay backed up by some first class acting.

[ejwrank]

Entire family saw this last night at Islington Vue and we all thought it was very well done. Judy Dench and Steve Coogan were both excellent and we went out for supper afterwards and spent a long time talking about the film which to me means it was very successful.

[fryster]

Saw this at Bracknell Odeon, from the trailer was looking forward to it and it didn't disappoint. Kept me engrossed throughout, the comedic touches were very good but didn't distract from the serious story. Not really got an opinion on Steve Coogan but have to say he was superb in this. One of the films that I will watch again, 8/10

[cheekyweelassie]

Saw this at a packed Islington Vue last night. I had seen the trailer, but didn't know the story, so I was surprised with the way it turned out.
I was really pleasantly surprised by Steve Coogan, who usually irritates me. I believe he was also involved in writing the screenplay, and I liked the deft funny touches which were needed for a bit of lightness but were never over the top.
Dame Judy was marvellous as ever. I felt very sympathetic towards her, and Philomena comes across as a very likeable character. However, I empathised more with the Martin Sixsmith character who felt angry and was in no mood for forgiveness.
The Catholic church comes out of this film covered in turds, and the story certainly gave us a lot to chat about on the tube home.
This has to be one of my favourite films of the year and I cannot give it anything other than 10/10.

[claire]

Seen this last night at shepherds bush
Absolutely superb acting and drama (not in normal film sense for me tho )
9/10. Has to be an oscar contender
Great to see Steve coogan in complete different role

Highly recommend. (Even my dad enjoyed and he only goes to see thrillers normally )

[caitlinmorton]

Here's my full review:

http://www.londoncitynights.com/2013/10 ... ephen.html

5/5*

Disappointed by lack of analysis of social classes, wasn't the ultimate message that the underclass should be happy with their simple lives as access to the better things in life will only turn you in to a hateful person?

I didn't get that at all.

[davewatts001]

I agree with the general thrust of the comments on this one - an excellent movie, beautifully played by Judi Dench and Steve Coogan.

As to Oscars, I do think it's possible that Dame Judi may well pick up another best actress nomination, although I don't think she'll win that category, all the early money being on Cate Blanchett for Blue Jasmine and Sandra Bullock for Gravity.

It will be interesting to see what happens in respect of Steve Coogan. His profile has been rising as a more serious actor recently, in films like What Maisie Knew, and he's superb in Philomena, but I think where he may pick up a nomination is in the best adapted screenplay category. As co-writer (and producer) of the movie, I think he's done an excellent job in reshaping Martin Sixsmith's original work 'The Lost Child of Philomena Lee' into a compelling screenplay, placing Sixsmith himself, and his relationship with Philomena, centre stage.

Let's hope BAFTA also gives the film the recognition it deserves.

[cliveas]

Disappointed by lack of analysis of social classes, wasn't the ultimate message that the underclass should be happy with their simple lives as access to the better things in life will only turn you in to a hateful person?

I didn't get that at all.

Don't worry you weren't the only one!