Philomena: An Astonishing Quest

Philomena is about a woman who was forced to work in a convent and give up her son for adoption in 1950s Ireland when she got pregnant out of wedlock. 50 years later, with the help of a cynical BBC journalist, the now 70-year old Philomena travels to Ireland and the United States to find out what happened to her long-lost son. The most remarkable thing about this story? It's completely true.

Judi Dench turns in an affecting (and Oscar-nominated) performance as Philomena Lee, a conventional yet remarkable woman who kept this secret hidden for decades until she could no longer lie to herself and those around her. And Steve Coogan (who also co-wrote the Oscar-nominated script with Jeff Pope) is brilliant as Martin Sixsmith, a disgraced political journalist who was reluctant to write a human interest story but gradually became Philomena's champion. The screenplay is based on Martin Sixsmith's book, The Lost Child of Philomena Lee, which I will be picking up from the library as soon as possible. 

This is a beautiful and surprising story, with many unexpected twists that prove that truth is stranger than fiction. It is also a tragic tale, featuring the all-too familiar narrative of women being shamed and having their lives put in danger simply because they didn't live up to religious and social ideals. Philomena remains staunchly Catholic despite her trials, while Martin is a staunch atheist who rails against the nuns who treated her so poorly, and the interaction between these two people sets up many thought-provoking arguments about the value of faith and forgiveness. 

Despite the somber story, Coogan and Pope have woven light comedic moments throughout the script and you will find yourself chuckling through your tears. Director Stephen Frears has paced the film beautifully, never letting it tip too far into melodrama or farce, and keeps the focus on the unlikely duo of Philomena and Martin as they seek long sought-after truths. The background score by Alexandre Desplat is wondrous, softening the harsh realities that Philomena encounters in her search, and assuring us that she will persevere despite every setback.

Philomena is both heartbreaking and heartwarming, a movie that burrows its way into your bones. It features two incredible performances based on an impeccable script and is a wonderful example of how extraordinary a seemingly ordinary life can be. It's a story that you absolutely need to see to believe.