Synopsis
A woman searches for her adult son, who was taken away from her decades ago when she was forced to live in a convent.
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Cast
- Judi DenchPhilomena
- Steve CooganMartin Sixsmith
- Sophie Kennedy ClarkYoung Philomena
- Mare WinninghamMary Hess
- Barbara JeffordSister Hildegarde
- Ruth McCabeMother Barbara
- Peter HermannPete Olsson
- Sean MahonMichael Hess
- Anna Maxwell MartinJane
- Michelle FairleySally Mitchell
Recommendations
- 100
Empire
A terrific, sophisticated comedy that tackles serious issues with a lightness of touch and a spirit of steel, Philomena is the British film to beat come BAFTA time. - 90
Time
Getting full comic effect from its class-comedy abrasions, Philomena rises to poignancy and profundity as Dench reveals her control of a character stained by the loss of her child and troubled by her suspicion. - 83
The Playlist
It's certainly a crowd-pleaser...and something close to a triumph, if not an unqualified one. - 80
The Guardian
Its main focus is the sparky, shifting relationship between its two protagonists and its trump card the startling chemistry between its two main stars. - 80
The Telegraph
This is a heartbreaking story – how could it not be? But Frears’ film breaks your heart and then repairs it. - 80
Time Out London
It's a terrifically moving film that has a fitting earthbound feel to it. - 80
Total Film
Odd-couple chemistry from Dench and Coogan, a smart script and honed direction make this real-life story highly compelling. Blending comedy and tragedy, it secretes a potent sting. - 80
Village Voice
The grande dame's performance, alternately goofy and grave, is an absolute tour de force.
