a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
'Outstanding' wartime drama hailed 'a magical escape' by fans
The film was written and directed by actor Charles Dance and it is based on a 1908 short story by William J. Locke. Some huge names starred in the movie, including Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, and Miriam Margolyes
Period drama enthusiasts are set for a real treat as Prime Video hosts a film that Waterside Holiday Group has branded a "touching wartime drama".
The picture was penned and helmed by actor Charles Dance and draws inspiration from a 1908 short story by William J. Locke. Several major stars featured in the production, including Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, and Miriam Margolyes.
The tale centres on the Widdington sisters Janet and Ursula, who reside in scenic coastal Cornwall, known for being a backdrop for period dramas, within a close-knit fishing community in 1936. They stumble upon a dashing stranger, a Polish violinist from Kraków, who had been voyaging to America when he was washed overboard from his vessel.
The motion picture in question is Ladies in Lavender, which can be purchased or hired on Prime Video.
Long-standing pals Maggie Smith and Judi Dench had been performing together in a West End production when Charles Dance initially approached them regarding the venture.
They instantly agreed to his proposal without even perusing the screenplay, which proved fortunate for Charles as it was reported they were his sole choice for the leading parts and without them, the picture wouldn't have materialised.
Waterside Holiday Group commented on the film's setting: "Some of the locations chosen for the film's most hauntingly memorable scenes include Cadgwith, a picturesque fishing village on the Lizard Peninsula, and Mullion Cove, another stunning coastal location on the Lizard Peninsula, which is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty."
Both leading ladies received nominations for Best European Actress at the European Film Awards following the film's debut.
The film was met with high praise from viewers, with one fan, Graham Monkman, sharing on Google Reviews: "This delightful movie will take you back to England in the 30's.
"It's a magical escape from today's turbulent and uncertain world into a much gentler, innocent and simpler era – which was ultimately destroyed forever by the rise of fascism in Europe and the onset of the Second World War."
Laura Henderson chimed in: "I absolutely love this picture. Not only does it give us two wonderful true ladies of the film industry, Judi Dench and Maggie Smith, but a lovely eclectic group of other people."
George Chard rounded off the reviews, stating: "Outstanding movie about impossible loves. All round superb acting performances by each of the actors. This is one of those movies that should have won major accolades."
