Philomena

2013 • 97 minutes

About this movie

Falling pregnant as a teenager in Ireland in 1952, Philomena was sent to the convent of Roscrea to be looked after as a "fallen woman". When her baby was only a toddler, he was taken away by the nuns for adoption in America. Philomena spent the next fifty years searching for him but with no success. Then she met Martin Sixsmith, a world-weary political journalist who happened to be intrigued by her story. Together they set off to America on a journey that would not only reveal the extraordinary story of Philomena's son, but also create an unexpectedly close bond between Philomena and Martin. The film is a compelling narrative of human love and loss that ultimately celebrates life, showing that there is laughter even in the darkest places. 2013 Philomena Lee Limited, Pathé Productions Limited, British Film Institute and British Broadcasting Corporation.

Ratings and reviews

I love both Judi Dench and Steve Coogan but I felt they were miscast. Particularly Coogan. I think it should not have tried to be so funny.

Moving, insightful, considered and up-lifting. The unfurling of the plot was truly spell-binding, and I cried more than once. I would highly recommend this film if you're looking for an intelligently heart-warming film.

Absaloutely no one should hate this film. I just don't think there's anything at all wrong with it. The picture's a bit weird though you keep getting lines going up and down your screen. Would recommend it to anyone.