With Philomena, Stephen Frears(Les Liaisons Dangereuses, The Queen) adapts a touching true story, inspired by Martin Sixsmith's book The Lost Child of Philomena Lee. The film blends biopic, drama and a touch ofbittersweet humor, thanks to brilliant writing by Steve Coogan and Jeff Pope.
The story begins in Ireland in the 1950s. As a teenager rejected by her family and sent to the Roscrea convent, Philomena Lee (played with remarkable accuracy by Judi Dench) sees her son Anthony taken away from her and adopted by Americans. Fifty years later, she meets Martin Sixsmith(Steve Coogan), a disillusioned journalist, who accompanies her to the United States to try to find her child. This quest is as much a search for truth as it is an inner journey, touching on themes such as forgiveness, faith and maternal love.
Philomena will be available on Max from February 21, 2025.
Synopsis: Ireland, 1952. Philomena Lee, still in her teens, becomes pregnant. Rejected by her family, she is sent to Roscrea Convent. To compensate for the care provided by the nuns before and during the birth, she works in the laundry, and is only allowed to see her son, Anthony, for one hour a day. At the age of three, he was taken away from her and adopted by Americans. For years, Philomena tried to find him. When, fifty years later, she meets Martin Sixmith, a disillusioned journalist, she tells him her story, and he persuades her to accompany him to the United States in search of Anthony.
Philomena will appeal to fans of moving stories inspired by true events. Those who enjoyed films like Lion or The Suffragettes will appreciate this exploration of family ties and social injustice, supported by remarkable performances.
The film's originality lies in its balance between emotion and humor. The improbable relationship between Philomena, a simple, religious woman, and Martin, a cynical journalist, gives rise to exchanges that are both funny and profound. Audiences looking for a film that combines powerful storytelling with subtlety will be delighted.
With its meticulous direction, intelligent writing and poignant performances, Philomena is both heartbreaking and hopeful. It stands out as a vibrant tribute to resilience and the quest for justice.
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