Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Judi Dench | ... | Philomena Lee | |
Steve Coogan | ... | Martin Sixsmith | |
Sophie Kennedy Clark | ... | Young Philomena | |
Mare Winningham | ... | Mary | |
Barbara Jefford | ... | Sister Hildegarde | |
Ruth McCabe | ... | Mother Barbara | |
Peter Hermann | ... | Pete Olsson | |
Sean Mahon | ... | Michael | |
Anna Maxwell Martin | ... | Jane | |
Michelle Fairley | ... | Sally Mitchell | |
Wunmi Mosaku | ... | Young Nun | |
Amy McAllister | ... | Sister Anunciata | |
Charlie Murphy | ... | Kathleen | |
Cathy Belton | ... | Sister Claire | |
Kate Fleetwood | ... | Young Sister Hildegarde |
When former journalist Martin Sixsmith (Steve Coogan) is dismissed from the Labour Party in disgrace, he is at a loss as to what do. That changes when a young Irish woman approaches him about a story of her mother, Philomena Lee (Dame Judi Dench), who had her son taken away when she was a teenage inmate of a Catholic convent. Martin arranges a magazine assignment about her search for him that eventually leads to America. Along the way, Martin and Philomena discover as much about each other as about her son's fate. Furthermore, both find their basic beliefs challenged. Written by Kenneth Chisholm (kchishol@rogers.com)
This was a great film. I haven't stopped thinking and talking about it since I saw it earlier today. This is a story that needed to be told: so much better than the typical blockbusters we are force-fed day by day. A very meaningful and poignant tale about what goes on in the heart of man and the secrets that can change lives if only known. My husband and I hugely enjoy the British style of acting with its dry humour and evident realism. A movie which portrays a reality that would be very close to home for thousands of people. Steve Coogan played his part very well. Judi Dench has excellent comic timing, which I haven't forgotten, having watched her in UK sitcoms in the old days. A must see. Well done to all involved.