A Movie Review: Philomena

Philomena. Martin Sixsmith (Steve Coogan) has just been fired from his Labour Party job in the UK.  He's depressed and is considering writing a book on Russian history.  He goes to a party where a young waitress approaches him, Jane (Anna Maxwell Martin).  Jane's mother, Philomena (Judi Dench), has just revealed some information to her.  As a young teen (1951), Philomena got pregnant.  She was sent to Sean Ross Abbey in Ireland where she had her child.  The child named Anthony was then given up for adoption to a wealthy American couple.  Jane asks if Martin will assist in tracking down Anthony.

Martin initially declines, but then has a change of heart.  Philomena and Martin being digging into the whereabouts of Anthony.  The nuns at the Abbey are not very helpful, but then via some fortunate luck they are led in the direction of America.

This is based on true life events.  As in all true life events movies, it is always helpful to read up on the accuracy of the film, which one can do via this link. Over-all, this is an unfortunate story told in a compelling way.  Steve Coogan as the somewhat arrogant, focus driven journalist and Judi Dench as the unsophisticated mother give wonderful performances.  The movie doesn't spare any punches towards the Irish Catholic church though at least via the link the modern Sean Ross Abbey isn't portrayed properly.

For a movie that deals with tension, I will admit there isn't much tension to the movie.  Yes, there is supposed to be an emotional wallop that hits, but to me all the potential outcomes are already played out via Philomena's concerns.  And you already know that they'll eventually locate Anthony, because why else would you make a movie about this topic if there wasn't a payoff of sorts.  Even with that complaint, it is still well worth watching this movie.