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10

amboyJan 8, 2014

This exceptional film is lifted from excellence to perfection by the note perfect work of Judi Dench and Steve Coogan. It is as much about forgiveness as it is about cruelty, but it is not sentimental. The real Philomena is apparently aThis exceptional film is lifted from excellence to perfection by the note perfect work of Judi Dench and Steve Coogan. It is as much about forgiveness as it is about cruelty, but it is not sentimental. The real Philomena is apparently a woman who has humor and enthusiasm and refuses to feel sorry for herself. These qualities, perfectly caught by Dench, makes the movie buoyant.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

MovieGoer14Mar 5, 2014

Easily one of the best. "Philomena" is a wave of emotions directly into the viewer's heart, having one of the best performances I have ever seen and one of the most effecting, touching stories ever made. Although I would like if more ofEasily one of the best. "Philomena" is a wave of emotions directly into the viewer's heart, having one of the best performances I have ever seen and one of the most effecting, touching stories ever made. Although I would like if more of Philomena's life was discussed, although this aspect does not harm any of the aspects of the film. Wonderful cinematography, lovable actors and touching characters. Philomena is slightly one of the greatest of all time.… Expand

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9

lukechristianscMar 22, 2014

Philonema is a wonderful story . but i am sad that her son died . it was kinda heartbreaking as well . but it is the most saddest movies i have ever seen . philonema is a hero and i hope she will save children .
Grade A
grade for philonema A+

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10

foxgroveNov 22, 2013

Whilst '12 Years a Slave' and 'The Butler' are banging the drum for the civil rights movement in America, another less talked about atrocity that took place in Ireland is broached in Philomena, namely the dreadful practise of catholic nunsWhilst '12 Years a Slave' and 'The Butler' are banging the drum for the civil rights movement in America, another less talked about atrocity that took place in Ireland is broached in Philomena, namely the dreadful practise of catholic nuns selling the children of young unwed mothers. These 'fallen women' were forced into convents which were run like work houses in order for them 'to cleanse their sins'. Many were in their early teens and most never saw their children again after adoption. This film concerns the search by one such mother,Philomena, who along with a journalist sets out to find the son she hasn't seen in nearly 50 years.
Judi Dench plays the title character and her performance is a class act. She gives an effortlessly briliiant and believable portrayal of this tortured, but hopeful woman. She is an actress to whom her art just seems to come naturally and she is again at the top of her game. Steve Coogan is also very good as the journalist and he can take another bow for co-authoring the richly textured screenplay. Whilst the writing tackles serious issues it still manages to tap into some wonderful humour in the midst of this desperately sad situation. The film, though, is certainly never mawkish, but it is at times genuinely affecting. In fact, the only thing that comes out bad here is the light shining on the Catholic Church.… Expand

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9

BHBarryDec 19, 2013

“Philomena” is the fillm directed by Stephen Frears based on the book “The Lost Child of Philomena Lee” written by Martin Sixsmith, Jeff Pope and Steve Coogan. Mr. Coogan also stars in the film with Dame Judi Dench. This is a movie I did not“Philomena” is the fillm directed by Stephen Frears based on the book “The Lost Child of Philomena Lee” written by Martin Sixsmith, Jeff Pope and Steve Coogan. Mr. Coogan also stars in the film with Dame Judi Dench. This is a movie I did not see when it first came into distribution since I had the misguided impression that it would be depressing and without spirit. Quite the contrary, this is a detective story, a story of faith and a story of perseverance as a mother spends most of her life trying to find the child taken from her and her forced servitude at the “mercy” of the nuns in the convent in which her child was born. Enough cannot be said about the performances of Mr. Coogan and of Ms. Dench as they dominate and capture this film and its true story. I give this film a 9 rating and suggest that it not be missed or the reader will risk missing a truly wonderful film.… Expand

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9

BikerjamesJan 7, 2014

Judy Dench and Steve Coogan play off each other well in this under the radar film. The catholic church once again does not look good in a film, although the atrocities took place 60 years ago in 1950s Ireland. Apparently nuns would take youngJudy Dench and Steve Coogan play off each other well in this under the radar film. The catholic church once again does not look good in a film, although the atrocities took place 60 years ago in 1950s Ireland. Apparently nuns would take young parent-less women into their convent who had babies out of wedlock and eventually sell their babies to wealthy Americans (true story believe it or not). The story is about one mother who decided to search for her son that was taken away from her 50 years earlier. She accepts the help of an author who hears about the story from the woman's daughter. They have an adventure together, going to America to find the son. There is a surprising amount of humor in addition to the heartbreak. Very well acted and written and easily one of the best films of the year.… Expand

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9

JenODec 1, 2013

Philomena is a heart wrenching story based on truth and the brilliant acting throughout makes it a compelling watch. Judi Dench and Steve Coogan both give incredible performances as do all the characters, from the young Philomena (SophiePhilomena is a heart wrenching story based on truth and the brilliant acting throughout makes it a compelling watch. Judi Dench and Steve Coogan both give incredible performances as do all the characters, from the young Philomena (Sophie Kennedy Clark) to her son Anthony/Michael (the handsome Sean Mahon). If there is one movie you see this Christmas that does a great job at telling an extraordinary story, it's Philomena.… Expand

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8

JanLDec 27, 2013

This is a delightful little movie. Judi Dench is terrific (as usual) and her performance may be Oscar-worthy. The movie made me feel something emotionally which is what I seek.

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8

Leo9127Jan 17, 2014

This movie is fantastic, Judi Dench, and Steve Coogan are great, this movie has a perfect combination of humor, and drama, and it can make you cry. This is one of the year's best.

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6

jeremypDec 8, 2013

While I found the story interesting, I found the persistent focus on comedic patter to be annoying. I'm all for lightening a serious subject from time to time, but the lead male actor plays his role as if he's on Monty Python, with so muchWhile I found the story interesting, I found the persistent focus on comedic patter to be annoying. I'm all for lightening a serious subject from time to time, but the lead male actor plays his role as if he's on Monty Python, with so much self reflective irony that his character ends up buffoonish. Dench is also given a character to play that the real Philomena has criticized for making her look like a "silly billy." She seems concrete and dense and rather vacuous. This story deserves better.… Expand

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5

JamesLJan 20, 2014

A lackluster film that had no energy or drive. I thought I was watching something that went straight to cable not an Oscar nominated film. No body seemed to have their heart in this one. Dench looked liked she was sleep walking through theA lackluster film that had no energy or drive. I thought I was watching something that went straight to cable not an Oscar nominated film. No body seemed to have their heart in this one. Dench looked liked she was sleep walking through the film and for some instinctive reason I knew her son would turn out to be one of two things. I was right. I have seen a lot of films about the Catholic Church and the evil it has done in Ireland that are so much better that again, I kept wondering why this film was so lame. Of course, I keep wondering why anyone remains in the Catholic Church.… Expand

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8

TVJerryNov 28, 2013

Judi Dench plays the slightly spunky and entirely endearing title character: a women who searches for the son she lost to adoption when she was a teen. Steve Coogan tamps down his comic side, as the career-challenged journalist who helps herJudi Dench plays the slightly spunky and entirely endearing title character: a women who searches for the son she lost to adoption when she was a teen. Steve Coogan tamps down his comic side, as the career-challenged journalist who helps her on her quest. It sounds like one of those dramas that could deteriorate into sentimentality, but under the assured direction of Stephen Frears it maintains integrity and heart. This true tale has enough turns to keep it interesting and Dench creates a character whose quiet demeanor reveals an appealing and confident woman. The narrative takes a little time to develop momentum, but by the end you'll be captivated by this sweet character and her engaging story.… Expand

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8

jimboesqDec 17, 2013

Went to see American Hustle which was sold out and saw this instead. Most of our opinions about films are measured by our expectations, and since i had none entering this film, i was very pleasantly surprised by the richness of the writingWent to see American Hustle which was sold out and saw this instead. Most of our opinions about films are measured by our expectations, and since i had none entering this film, i was very pleasantly surprised by the richness of the writing and character development and the depth of the story. if you are Irish, or Roman catholic, or both, this film will resonate with you. The male v female roles are well worn but well played here, and the Judy Dench character stays true to form, and the male character, so initially smug and self-assured, comes to learn something from the "less intelligent, religious, faith-based" character that reminded me of the great comedies of the 40's and 50's (e.g., Hepburn & Tracey; Grant & Hepburn, etc) except here there is no romance, just life and character. This is a very good couples film for mature audiences.… Expand

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8

catcarloDec 30, 2013

Se la ricetta semplice, contano gli ingredienti. La storia vera di Philomena Lee potrebbe essere perfetta per un settimanale scandalistico (come subito intuisce la cinica Sally) o per un filmone strappalacrime che colpisca basso. GiovaneSe la ricetta semplice, contano gli ingredienti. La storia vera di Philomena Lee potrebbe essere perfetta per un settimanale scandalistico (come subito intuisce la cinica Sally) o per un filmone strappalacrime che colpisca basso. Giovane ragazza madre durante gli anni Cinquanta in un’Irlanda bigotta oltre ogni dire, Philomena paga un giorno di gioia alla fiera venendo rinchiusa in un convitto di suore dove prima costretta a partorire con dolore (figlio podalico e niente anestetico) e poi a vedersi portare via il piccolo Anthony, dato in adozione negli Stati Uniti. Cinquant’anni dopo, la sua strada si incrocia con quella di Martin Sixsmith, giornalista politico rimasto senza lavoro, che si interessa a lei sperando di ricavarne una storia da cui ripartire, ma che ben presto si lascia coinvolgere aiutando la donna nella ricerca del figlio perduto. Ricerca che riserverà piccole gioie e grandi delusioni, oltre a una bella arrabbiatura che scuote Martin al confronto di una pacificata Philomena. Pronti i fazzoletti? Neanche per idea: Stephen Frears tiene con sicurezza le redini alternando il dramma a delicati tocchi di commedia che scaturiscono dall’incontro fra due persone diversissime il laureato a ‘Oxbridge’ che ha girato il mondo e la donna del popolo, infermiera per una vita, che si entusiasma per i romanzi rosa e le banalità da piccolo schermo lavorando su una sceneggiatura di Steve Coogan e Jeff Pope, tratta dal libro del vero Sixsmith, tanto efficace da venir premiata a Venezia e costellata di battute da ricordare (tra le più belle dell’anno quella sul suonare l’arpa e i gay, forse non correttissima, ma va ricordato che si tratta di una madre che parla del proprio figlio). Del resto, Coogan, attore e autore comico per la televisione britannica, ha preso talmente a cuore il progetto da esserne anche produttore e interprete: il suo ruolo, però, non può e non vuole essere che quello del comprimario, perché al di là dei meriti di tutti quanti, il vero pilastro su cui il film si regge l’interpretazione di Judi Dench. La sua Philomena una donna addolorata ma forte che, quando riesce infine a dare una risposta agli interrogativi della sua vita, trova l’energia per chiudere i conti con il passato e guardare avanti. Nei momenti più intensi, Frears stringe il primo piano e la signora, incurante delle rughe, sa restituire un’emozione (o un mondo di emozioni) con la profondità dello sguardo per poi regalare altrettanta classe a un duetto brillante con Coogan nei momenti più leggeri. I due personaggi principali sono il fulcro della narrazione, il che spinge inevitabilmente gli altri sullo sfondo con la sola eccezione di Sophie Kennedy Clark che interpreta la giovane Philomena: discorso ben diverso, invece, per quanto riguarda una natura che si erge quasi a co-protagonista. Tutta la pellicola si svolge tra l’autunno e l’inverno, ma mentre c’è il gelo nelle immagini che narrano l’adolescenza reclusa di una ragazza sottoposta a regole che, pur solo a pochi decenni di distanza, ci paiono impossibili, sono le più calde tonalità autunnali ad accompagnare gran parte dell’azione nel presente: si passa così dai paesaggi ancora verdeggianti di un’Irlanda umida ma fascinosa al coloratissimo foliage che fa da sfondo alla trasferta negli Stati Uniti raggiungendo il massimo del suo splendore durante la decisiva visita a Pete Olsson. E’ qui che, dopo aver vinto le resistenze dell’uomo, il cerchio si chiude con lo svelarsi di un’ulteriore cattiveria che tira in ballo ancora una volta le colpe della chiesa cattolica in Irlanda, la cui spietatezza controriformistica ha raggiunto livelli abnormi anche a confronto di un Paese cattolicissimo come il nostro. Da quando ‘Magdalene’ ha squarciato il silenzio, si saputo di tutto e ‘Philomena’ aggiunge un altro mattone: a parte qualche lodevole eccezione, come la levatrice suor Anunciata, il sistema (incarnato da suor Hildegard) era strutturato per ottundere e reprimere perché il peccato va espiato nel dolore (una delle prime battute) e il piacere altrui non ammesso (una delle ultime).… Expand

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10

LeZeeApr 15, 2014

The movie was adapted from a book called 'The Lost Child of Philomena Lee' which was based on the true story of an Irish woman. The movie chronicles the story of Philomena's quest in search of her long lost son which travels all the wayThe movie was adapted from a book called 'The Lost Child of Philomena Lee' which was based on the true story of an Irish woman. The movie chronicles the story of Philomena's quest in search of her long lost son which travels all the way across the ocean to different countries. And again this incredible story ended in the hands of a great director. The director Stephen Fears just put some magic spell on the story and it became a soulful movie with the fine support from his cast and crew.

The movie was just like I wanted. From each level of the story, it surprised with the beautiful turning points. It was a single movie, but I felt I saw part by part, chapter after another with detailed information. 'Philomena' is phenomenal movie of the year. The depth of emotions can be felt through our heart, very touching story. An inspiring movie for other mothers who are still looking for their lost children. One should never lose his 'hope', it can be used as a powerful weapon to discover what had you lost.

I had seen plenty of nature documentaries about a mother and love towards her kids. It might be a polar bear from Arctic or a penguin from Antarctic they all fight for their little ones and ready to give her own life when it matters. In this movie Philomena's (Judi Dench) child was taken away from her under some tough circumstances. She kept it secret in her sealed lip but never stopped to look for him. She waited for 50 year-long, finally with the help of a former BBC journalist, Martin Sixsmith (Steve Coogan), she succeeds to follow the tracks. Whether the mother and son unite or not is the movie's end.

As far I know the best ever performance by Steve Coogan. This movie definitely will boost his confidence for his future project and also will help his professional graph go upwards. Never doubted the James Bond lady (M), Judi Dench as Philomena. Her experience came to very useful to shape up this movie well. Never could have been this much exciting the movie without these two along with the director. Hope they all join hands together for another project in the near future.

9.5/10… Expand

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9

ThegodfathersonDec 8, 2013

As for the supporting cast members in Philomena, they’re very much side dressing to Coogan and Dench’s performances as the main course. Nevertheless, people like Michelle Fairley (Game of Thrones), Barbara Jefford (The Ninth Gate) and PeterAs for the supporting cast members in Philomena, they’re very much side dressing to Coogan and Dench’s performances as the main course. Nevertheless, people like Michelle Fairley (Game of Thrones), Barbara Jefford (The Ninth Gate) and Peter Hermann (Our Idiot Brother) still manage to get a respectable amount of emotional mileage out of their few scenes. Ultimately, though, Dench and Coogan are the beating heart of Frears’ cinematic social/political commentary, as their work together is enough to accommodate many of the flaws in storytelling making Philomena a heart-churning and enjoyable moviegoing experience, as a whole.… Expand

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9

JordanElgrablyDec 1, 2013

This is one of the most sobering, funny and adult movies we've seen in many a season. As parents of a young child ourselves, my wife and I (both writers) were moved by the story of the out of work London political journalist who becomesThis is one of the most sobering, funny and adult movies we've seen in many a season. As parents of a young child ourselves, my wife and I (both writers) were moved by the story of the out of work London political journalist who becomes intrigued by the story of an aging Irish mother looking for her long-lost child...given up for adoption? sold to the highest bidder? It's all based on a true story, which makes the conclusion that much more heart-rending. The story reminded me of a parallel reality in which for decades, Israeli doctors and hospitals acquired babies and young children by the most nefarious means to provide to wealthy American Jewish families who couldn't produce children of their own. While this film is often dark, there is plenty of levity as well, and we both left the theatre thought-provoked, entertained and satisfied at an hour and a half well-spent. Indeed, when I got home I wanted to Tweet Steve Coogan, whom I had only known as a comedic actor, to congratulate him on his choice of role and his work as the film's producer (turns out while he has an account, Coogan is not yet active). Kudos are due to director Stephen Frears, who has long been in the small coterie of my favorite indie filmmakers, especially since his films "The Hit," "My Beautiful Laundrette" and "Sammy and Rosie Get Laid."… Expand

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8

etb444Dec 27, 2013

First of all, basing this movie off of a true story made the movie have a sense of realism, offering you a moving, yet tragic story. It was a very inspiring tale about a woman who's deep belief in faith allowed her to overcome strenuousFirst of all, basing this movie off of a true story made the movie have a sense of realism, offering you a moving, yet tragic story. It was a very inspiring tale about a woman who's deep belief in faith allowed her to overcome strenuous obstacles. Judie Dench did it again with an astounding performance. Unfortunately, the film was slow moving at times but nonetheless a phenomenal movie. I highly recommend it.… Expand

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9

MarcMaederJan 2, 2014

After a series of unfortunate missteps ("Lay The Favorite", "Chéri", "Tamara Drewe",...) it's good to see Stephen Frears back in shape....PHILOMENA is by far his strongest film since 2006 "The Queen", furthermore it re-unites him with hisAfter a series of unfortunate missteps ("Lay The Favorite", "Chéri", "Tamara Drewe",...) it's good to see Stephen Frears back in shape....PHILOMENA is by far his strongest film since 2006 "The Queen", furthermore it re-unites him with his "Mrs Henderson Presents" star Judi Dench, she co-stars here with British comedian Steve Coogan in a more seldom straight dramatic role (Coogan is also credited as co-writer as well as one of the producers of the film). It's based on a similarly-themed Peter Mullan directed film which won the Golden Lion in Venice back in 2002 "The Magdalene Sisters", but the tone here is much lighter,...basically Coogan and co-writer Jeff Pope adapted the 2003 memoir from real-life journalist Martin Sixsmith (played by Coogan himself in the film) in which he tells how he helped an elderly Irish woman, Philomena Lee (Judi Dench), track down the son she was forced to give up 50 years earlier when sent to a Catholic convent as a pregnant teenager...
PHILOMENA is a touching comedy-drama with just the right mix of laughter and tears...aided by an inspired odd-couple of terrific actors in Dame Judi and Steve Coogan,... and with a push from warm reviews and eventual nominations, it may well have a serious shot at a nice run well beyond the British Isles in various upscale markets around the world...… Expand

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10

sidonieJan 31, 2014

such a sublime film in which Stephen Frears has found the perfect tone to narrate with his customary subtlety the story of an encounter and of a double quest. That of a mother but also that of a journalist whose pseudo certainties aresuch a sublime film in which Stephen Frears has found the perfect tone to narrate with his customary subtlety the story of an encounter and of a double quest. That of a mother but also that of a journalist whose pseudo certainties are shattered, which, paradoxically enough, makes him stronger by giving him (back) the capacity to be moved by another human being. Judi Dench depicts in a breathtaking way all the complexity and the density of the emotions and thoughts of this luminous Philomena. She achieves this with the grace and the delicacy which are part and parcel of her acting skills and with this extraordinary capacity she possesses to embody the beauty, the frailty and the strength of the human soul.… Expand

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10

SalahsueFeb 10, 2014

This is an excellent movie, well constructed and interesting. It's not action-packed but it's not meant to be. Judy Dench is, as usual, terrific and Steve Coogan is a perfect foil for her. Their synergy on screen is mesmerizing. Never forThis is an excellent movie, well constructed and interesting. It's not action-packed but it's not meant to be. Judy Dench is, as usual, terrific and Steve Coogan is a perfect foil for her. Their synergy on screen is mesmerizing. Never for one second did I think "that's Judy Dench pretending to be Irish", her performance was impeccable.If you're looking for fast-paced action with lots of twists and turns, this is not the movie for you, but if you want a heartfelt, warm, human story, then don't miss this.… Expand

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2

AlexAndersenDec 7, 2014

Could have been a cute movie if not for the out of context political jabs. I watch movies for entertainment. If want political statements I can always watch cable news. Sorry can't recommend this film for this reason. Very annoying!

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5

LynJan 19, 2014

Judi Dench is excellent as always. Can't recall a recent film of hers in which she played a more huggable character (and yet, with a little edge). My main problem with the film was that it felt very much like a Lifetime movie ... you know,Judi Dench is excellent as always. Can't recall a recent film of hers in which she played a more huggable character (and yet, with a little edge). My main problem with the film was that it felt very much like a Lifetime movie ... you know, with one of the Golden Girls playing the older Irish lady and some sitcom guy playing the jaded ex-journalist. I understand that the anti-Catholic vitriol was very much amped up for the film as well, which bothers me (although I'm not Catholic). A good one to rent later and enjoy Dench's performance.… Expand