There are many comments already entered here that very expertly dissect and appraise this remarkable piece of film, so alternatively, I would simply like to express my love for the work, about the impact it had on me and the roller-coaster of emotions I experienced during its screening.
I feel I must start by underlining that the principal reason for this production having such a profound effect on me was the breathtaking performance of Emma Thompson. I don't recall ever having seen a piece of televisual drama portrayed so perfectly as this. So convincing was she, that it was easy to lose sight of the fact that this was in fact a portrayal of a terminally ill woman and not of a real life account.
Throughout the film I found that I was repeatedly asking questions of myself, in respect of the abhorrent circumstances of Vivian Bearing, particularly geared towards how I believed I would handle such a terrible situation. Not only that but how would I handle the fatal disease in Vivian's position i.e. no family or friends to comfort and care for you.
Vivian's almost entirely independent, personal fight against the inevitable was as challenging as it was distressing and it brings home to the viewer how much is taken for granted, by so many of us, on a day to day basis...family, friends, a sense of perspective and good health.
Again, I cannot eulogise Thompson's performance enough...a truly exceptional picture.
9/10
I feel I must start by underlining that the principal reason for this production having such a profound effect on me was the breathtaking performance of Emma Thompson. I don't recall ever having seen a piece of televisual drama portrayed so perfectly as this. So convincing was she, that it was easy to lose sight of the fact that this was in fact a portrayal of a terminally ill woman and not of a real life account.
Throughout the film I found that I was repeatedly asking questions of myself, in respect of the abhorrent circumstances of Vivian Bearing, particularly geared towards how I believed I would handle such a terrible situation. Not only that but how would I handle the fatal disease in Vivian's position i.e. no family or friends to comfort and care for you.
Vivian's almost entirely independent, personal fight against the inevitable was as challenging as it was distressing and it brings home to the viewer how much is taken for granted, by so many of us, on a day to day basis...family, friends, a sense of perspective and good health.
Again, I cannot eulogise Thompson's performance enough...a truly exceptional picture.
9/10