Bitter-sweet comedy celebrating life

The bitter-sweet comedy film Philomena is being shown at the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill on Thursday, February 6 (7.30pm).
By The Newsroom
Published 9th Jan 2014, 16:38 BST
Judi Dench and Steve Coogan in PhilomenaJudi Dench and Steve Coogan in Philomena
Judi Dench and Steve Coogan in Philomena

Falling pregnant as a teenager in Ireland in 1952, Philomena Lee was sent to the convent of Roscrea to be looked after as a ‘fallen woman’.

When her baby was only a toddler, he was whisked away by the nuns to America for adoption. Philomena spent the next 50 years searching for him in vain.

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Then she met Martin Sixsmith, a world-weary journalist as cynical as Philomena was trusting.

Together they set off for America on a journey that would not only reveal the extraordinary story of Philomena’s son, but also the powerful bond that grew up between Philomena and Martin – a surprising relationship that was both profoundly moving and very funny.

The film is a compelling narrative of human love and loss, and a heart-breaking story that ultimately celebrates life.

It has been nominated for 4 British Independent Film Awards; Best British Independent Film, Best Actress for Judi Dench, Best Actor for Steve Coogan, Best Screenplay for Steve Coogan and Jeff Pope.

Related topics:De La Warr PavilionBexhillIrelandSteve Coogan