Film review: Edie (3 out of 5)

We all have actors who become part of our life - we grow up watching them on TV, in films and even on the stage.
Sheila Hancock in EdieSheila Hancock in Edie
Sheila Hancock in Edie

That’s certainly applicable with Sheila Hancock and me - we go back a long way, to the 60s in fact and Rag Trade on the small screen.

And, in her role as a university chancellor, she even handed my daughter her degree.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

So it was joy to see her back in a leading role for this very British film.

She plays the title role, a woman in her twilight years who has spent decades looking after her infirm husband, a man who dominated their marriage completely before and after suffering a stroke.

When he passes away Edie is shepherded into the usual path by her daughter, selling her house and moving into a old people’s home.

But Edie has one happy memory - spending time with her dad camping and climbing hills and generally being outdoors.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

So she embarks on a very tough solo trip - climbing the daunting Mount Suilven in Scotland.

However, on her travels she literally bumps into Jonny (Kevin Guthrie) and the two form a strong bond.

Hancock and Guthrie are excellent and have a great on-screen rapport.

And the idea behind the story is laudable - it’s never too late to take on tough challenges and face life head-on.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

However, the plot seemed to meander somewhat and Jonny’s own rather unclear concerns rather muddied the waters.

And at one stage a mysterious samaritan appears seemingly just to help the story out of a hole.

But this is worth watching for Sheila Hancock alone, although the beautiful Scottish views also make it a delight.

Film details: Edie (12A) 102mins

Director: Simon Hunter

Starring: Sheila Hancock, Kevin Guthrie, Paul Brannigan

Screening courtesy of Horsham Capitol

Related topics: