
Philomena
2013, Drama, 1h 37m
203 Reviews 50,000+ RatingsWhat to know
critics consensus
Based on a powerful true story and led by note-perfect performances from Judi Dench and Steve Coogan, Philomena offers a profoundly affecting drama for adult filmgoers of all ages. Read critic reviews
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Cast & Crew
Philomena Lee
Martin Sixsmith
Sally Mitchell
Sister Hildegarde
Jane
Mary
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Critic Reviews for Philomena
Audience Reviews for Philomena
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Mar 12, 2021First of all, it's a road movie with two contradictory characters; I like those movies, so it's already got me there. As for the premise itself, the fascinating thing about it is despite a dark and frankly evil starting off point for their journey, the film itself is surprisingly quirky and charming. That really comes down to Philomena herself. Not just how wonderfully she is played by Judi Dench, but how great the real life character is. Despite all that has happened to her, she keeps her faith and optimism, and that is truly the spirit of the film. Also, she's just a godamn delight of a human being and truly funny. The chemistry between Judi Dench and Steve Coogan is spot on, and his cynicism with her optimism is a delight. The movie has a simple goal in the end, but it does so with great character and charming leads. It's heartwarming and fun and I really liked it.Michael M Super Reviewer
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Jul 07, 2019Loved this film to bits!Serge E Super Reviewer
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May 27, 2017an alternative to the magdalene sisters. i was struglling to envision steeve coogan in a serious role and much to my surprise he wasnt very serious at all which, to the film-maker's credit, worked just fine. judi dench as usual was a force in of herself which leant creedence to the seriousness in which this story must be taken. most poignant was the affect the two characters had on each other.Sanity Assassin ! Super Reviewer
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May 29, 2015A woman in her 60s recruits the help of a disgraced journalist to find her son she was forced to give up for adoption as a teenager by the nuns who ran the orphanage she lived in. Engrossing and the discoveries follow an unpredictable path in this true-life story, with a completely unexpected and welcome injection of humor throughout. Both Judi Dench and Steve Coogan are marvelous in their roles playing people with very different outlooks on life, particularly with regards to religion, yet united with commonness of purpose. Worth seeking out and deservedly earned Oscar nominations for Dench, picture, original music, and the adapted screenplay.Doctor S Super Reviewer
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