Film Stars Don't Die In Liverpool

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I attended the gala showing at this years London Film Festival with more than a little curiosity and perhaps if I am honest a little scepticism. Everything about this film seemed as extraordinary as its title. Lets start with the pairing of Annette Bening and Jamie Bell, an improbable combination to say the least but one that not only works, it works like a charm. Of course this is an extraordinary story, a true story. The film is based on the book by Peter Turner which is a memoir of his affair with the film star Gloria Graham. Unlikely? Yes, but true none the less and it is the truth that makes it so touching, romantic, tender, sexy, funny and sad; beautifully, heartbreakingly sad. This film is all those things. It begins at the end of Glorias life and then moves seamlessly into the past and the telling of the history between these two people. Just as we find ourselves swept up in their beguiling romance the film returns quietly to the present. Dipping into the past and back again, travelling the trajectory of their relationship to its inevitable conclusion.
Vanessa Redgrave delivers a superb cameo as Glorias Mother while Julie Walters brings depth and empathy to the role of Peters Mother. I must also mention the music for the film which is written by another great story teller, Elvis Costello, and complements the film perfectly. So I would say; watch the film, buy the book, listen to the music, its all good. I can't help wondering if this will be Annette Benings year at The Oscars. I would love it if it was.



© Theresa Collins 
    (First published 19/11/17)


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