'Very special' film with perfect rating will leave 'everyone sobbing'
Nowhere Special, a certified tearjerker, is the brainchild of Uberto Pasolini, who served as its producer, writer, and director.
The film poignantly narrates the tale of John, a single father who, after receiving a terminal cancer diagnosis, must find a suitable adoptive family for his four year old son, Michael.
Set against the backdrop of Northern Ireland, Nowhere Special subtly delves into themes of love, loss, and profound familial bonds as John embarks on the heartrending task of ensuring his son's future.
Inspired by a true story, Pasolini reportedly drew from an article he read about a terminally ill father who had to secure a new family for his son before his impending death.
Nowhere Special made its world debut at the Venice Film Festival in September 2020 and subsequently hit UK cinemas on 16 July 2021. The film saw its US theatrical release on 26 April 2024, reports the Express.
The deeply moving drama features James Norton and Daniel Lamont in lead roles, with support from Eileen O'Higgins, Valene Kane, Keith McErlean, and Valerie O'Connor. Norton's compelling portrayal of the terminally ill John earned him a nomination for Best Actor at the British Independent Film Awards in 2021.
With a stellar 100 per cent critics approval rating and an audience approval rating of 93 per cent on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, Nowhere Special has certainly left a lasting impression on both critics and viewers alike.
One critic praised the film, saying: "This Irish drama is what happens when little movies get it right - respecting the situation instead of exploiting it, and exploring a difficult choice instead of suggesting that the built-in emotion of the challenge is all that's needed."
Another described it as: "A measured, emotional ripper... a 35-year-old window cleaner and single father who must find a home for his four-year-old son when he learns he has only a few months to live... Details accrue; anger steels. A steady hand gets the story through."
A third critic was moved by the film, writing: "Nowhere Special is something special indeed. If you aren't shedding well-earned tears by the end of this film you simply are not human."
Meanwhile, another reviewer noted: "For a film about loneliness and death, it's tender, intelligent and life-affirming without ever being maudlin and mawkish. A rare and distinguished film indeed."
Audience reactions were equally heartfelt, with one viewer commenting: "Difficult to watch in places (particularly if you are the father of a young boy) but astonishing performances by the two leads make this one of the best films I have ever seen."
One fan raved: "I watched it and it was amazing. I haven't seen a film this good in many years. I suggest having a box of tissues handy. Right from the start it starts to pull on your heartstrings and doesn't let go. James Norton and the young newcomer, Daniel Lamont were brilliant onscreen together. This is a film I would recommend to others."
Another viewer shared their thoughts, saying: "Sad, poignant story that'll make you cry but a lovely performance from James Norton in the lead and delightful chemistry with his on screen son Daniel Lamont."
Nowhere Special can be rented for a cosy night in on Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime Video at the cost of £3.49.
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