Philomena

Inspired by true events, this Best Picture nominee tells the intense and chilling story of a guilt-riddled Irishwoman searching for the son who was stole from her by the Catholic Church. In Northern Ireland in 1952, young Philomena (Sophie Kennedy Clark)—seduced at a carnival—was dispatched by her parents to punitive nuns who incarcerated unwed pregnant girls in Roscrea, a slave-labor workhouse. Aptly named, the Sisters of Little Mercy insisted that the “fallen girls” give birth with little or no medical assistance, claiming that “pain is their penance.” Afterwards, they were only allowed to see their children for one hour each day. For a $1,000 donation, Catholic couples from the United States adopted the kids—without their mothers' knowledge or permission. Now an elderly Irish widow, devoutly religious Philomena Lee (Oscar-nominee Judi Dench) is determined to find her long-lost son, Anthony. Intrigued by the heartwarming potential of this human-interest story, cynical BBC journalist Martin Sixsmith (Steve Coogan) traces Anthony's adoption to America and eventually escorts congenial, relentlessly curious Philomena on a trip to Washington, D.C., a journey that proves to be a revelation for both. Based on a book by Sixsmith, Philomena adroitly balances gentle comedic touches with a harrowing act of injustice thanks to the sure direction by Stephen Frears. Offering a poignant testament to the integrity of the human spirit that also captures Philomena's eloquent faith in mankind's essential goodness, this is highly recommended. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include audio commentary by co-screenwriter and costar Steve Coogan and screenwriter Jeff Pope, a Q&A with Coogan (25 min.), a conversation with star Judi Dench (9 min.), an interview with “The Real Philomena Lee” (3 min.), and trailers. Exclusive to the Blu-ray release is a bonus UltraViolet copy of the film. Bottom line: a solid extras package for this Best Picture nominee.] (S. Granger)