This quirky little known british drama, directed by Charles Dance, knwon to younger viewers as Tywin Lannister, stars Judy Dench and Maggie Smith, both incredible actresses, this film does little to stretch their dramatic chops, and in spite of it's simpering, the film is really rather good, Dench and Smith star as two sisters who find a young man on the beach, and manage to bring him back to health. The film is a fantastic vehicle for two magnificent actresses, both in their prime, and is a soothing and comforting watch.
This is one of my favorites, starring Helen Mirren and Julie Walters, and based on the true story of a group of womens institute members in Yorkshire, who decide to create a nude calendar to raise money for the cancer wing of their local hospital, and are met with much opposition. Julie Walters is one of my favorite comic actresses, her performance in this film is great and she is hysterical, the film is also a great showcase for the comic talents of Helen Mirren, who is not usually known as a comic, but who shines in this film, there is a twee provincialism to this film, and a comfort also present, the film is joyous and funny, and it's lead actresses are superb.
The directorial debut of actor Dustin Hoffman is a surprisingly british affair, the story of four musicians living in a nursing home in the english countryside, who were previously in relationships, and who have all given up their music, reunite for one magnificent performance. The film stars Maggie Smith, Billy Connoly, Michael Gambon, Tom Courtenay and Pauline Collins, the film, like most of the others on this list, is a perfect vehicle for it's stars, and despite the story being a little pedestrian, the chemistry and connections between the four leads is palpable and mesmerizing.
The fact that this is a musical based upon the songs of ABBA makes Mamma Mia a perfect addition to this list. the music is fun and energetic, and the film overall has a great sense of energy and joy. Meryl Streep leads a superb cast of thespians, and the film does a fantastic job of adapting the show to the big screen.
The 2005 version of this film, whilst not perhaps as beloved as the television serial starring Colin Firth, is still pretty fantastic, Kiera Knightley is by far the best Elizabeth Bennett seen on film, and the fest of the cast is just as excellent. Donald Sutherland stars as her father, and Judi Dench as Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Pride and Prejudice is a sumptuous and beautiful adaptation, that faithfully captures the romanticism and beauty of Jane Austen's superb novel.
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