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hannahpelicula
Reviews
One Life (2023)
A true story told with respect and heart
Anthony Hopkins' performance as Nicholas Winton gives exceptional depth to a role that could have been sentimental in others' hands. We meet this charitable yet tetchy man in his old age, underplaying the major role he played in rescuing so many Jewish children from the Nazis and death camps, yet deeply regretting the loss of those who never made it.
There is a fine supporting cast. The scenes of team work to get the children out between the younger Winton, played by Johnny Flynn and Winton's mother Babi, played by a feisty Helen Bonham-Carter, give energy and urgency. We see where Winton's commitment to help others comes from. It's pleasing to see that there are no uncomfortable Jewish stereotypes. The scene with the Czech rabbi, played by Samuel Finzi, initially torn between removing Jewish children from their parents, yet moving to a position of complete trust in Winton's integrity, reflects the director James Hawes' commitment to authenticity.
The That's Life scene in the film does include family of the Czech Kindertransport refugees who were saved by Winton. However, Anthony Hopkins was not told this before filming the sequence. Although I was concerned such a precious TV moment from the past wouldn't ring true, in fact, it had the same power. Prepare to shed some tears. This is a moving film that tells an important true story with respect and heart.
An Irish Goodbye (2022)
Dark and delightful
This dark but delightful film, set in the Northern Irish countryside, deserves all its awards and praise. Yes, we have seen most of the plot twists before and warring brothers is a familiar theme. However, the joy of this film is in its warm heart and wit.
Paddy Jenkins, who plays the quirky and awkward Father O'Shea, was a particular favourite, but of course, the film belonged to James Martin as Lorcan. Feisty and often very rude, he owns the screen whenever he appears.
The representation of his Down's Syndrome was an education, too. We see Lorcan as more than his condition. He knows exactly what he wants in life, he always says what he thinks and leads the way in his plans for his life and in celebrating his mother's memory. This really makes the film stand out from others in its representation of disability.
The only thing I thought was a tad silly was the extremely professional looking artwork which was meant to be produced by Lorcan. Yes, of course it was a visual joke, but something slightly rougher would have had the same effect.