A WWII veteran escapes his care home in Northern Ireland and embarks on an arduous but inspirational journey to France to attend the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings, finding the coura... Read allA WWII veteran escapes his care home in Northern Ireland and embarks on an arduous but inspirational journey to France to attend the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings, finding the courage to face the ghosts of his past.A WWII veteran escapes his care home in Northern Ireland and embarks on an arduous but inspirational journey to France to attend the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings, finding the courage to face the ghosts of his past.
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- 2 nominations total
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Featured reviews
My Dad was in the South African Irish infantry, so this particular story resonates with me, although he wasn't at Normandy. He regularly attended M. O. T. H meetings and tried to keep in touch with his army compatriots as much as he could. They must surely also all be gone by now.
However, I don't think Pierce Brosnan was all that convincing as a 92 year old, that is just my opinion, but I still enjoyed his performance and the movie overall.
This wonderful film switches our hero to be from Northern Ireland. This was a brave and commendable choice. For this alone it should be watched as it shines a light on the brave sacrifice of so many loyal Irishman in WW2.
What made it a 10/10 for me were two things. First it was absolutely authentic. The black soldier wasn't "bigged up" but neither did he need to be. This was a superb scene. John Amos was excellent in his role here.
The second was that Terry Loane, as Director, and Kevin Fitzpatrick's writing ensure that tough issues are not ignored. Pierce's Brosnans anger with the SS soldier seems entirely genuine and Kevin does not shirk the difficulty of crafting the scene. Jurgen Prochnow isn't so strong here.
But a special shout out must be made for Clemence Poesy who steals every frame she is in. You will remember her from Harry Potter but here she is older and showing off her acting range.
Of course Pierce is amazing. It breaks my heart that this film was not promoted or marketed. It deserves so much better.
I enjoyed the supporting characters. They highlighted Arty's natural charm on people throughout his journey and how one could not love the man. No over acting. All nicely done and genuine. Each was touched by his resolve and gentleness.
Brosnan artfully played a "92 and three quarters" year old man. The way he cared and doted over his aged wife and mourned her death, his mannerisms, his speech, his body movements. Everything was genuine. The makeup artists were masterful in creating a character 20 years older than his actual age.
I only would give 10 stars to a movie that I would see again, wouldn't mind owning, and would recommend to my friends to see. This earns it.
Don't expect some Private Ryan here, even though WW2 seems to be the backstory. This one is more heart-warming, but heartbreaking the same time.
Most critics will underrate this movie, but you'll miss a very well acted little gem, if you listen to them.
Give it a try.
Did you know
- TriviaThis film is inspired by the true story of Bernard Jordan, a British World War II veteran who slipped out of his nursing home in England in 2014, wearing his war medals pinned to a jacket under his raincoat. He traveled by bus and ferry to France to attend commemorations for the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings.
Jordan announced his intention to make a similar escape in 2015 to attend the next anniversary. He died peacefully at home in The Pines on Jan. 6, 2015.
- GoofsIn the very last scene Artie is saluted by the Regiment O.C. Artie returns his salute. In the British Army, you do not salute without a head cover. He should have "braced up". i.e. stood to attention.
- Quotes
Friedrich Mueller: It's a shock to learn you've lost the war. It's a greater shock to discover you've been on the wrong side.
- ConnectionsReferences Saving Private Ryan (1998)
- SoundtracksDon't Fence Me In
Written by Cole Porter
WC Music Corp. (ASCAP)
All rights administered by WARNER CHAPPELL NORTH AMERICA LTD.
Performed by Gene Autry
Originally Released 1944
Sony BMG Music Entertainment
Licensed by Sony Music Entertainment UK Limited
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Details
Box office
- Gross worldwide
- $10,061
- Runtime1 hour 35 minutes
- Color
- Aspect ratio
- 2.41 : 1
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