Several things about this movie before delving into the storyline. First, it is brilliantly produced, written, directed, and acted. The technical details, such as sets, costumes, and cinematography are all Oscar level in my opinion, and they only add to an already impressive production.
Second, it is a true story, based on the memoirs of Eric Lomax told in his best-selling novel of the same name published in 1995. Lomax is played by Colin Firth, who matches the caliber of his Oscar level winning performance from “The Kingâs Speech” several years back, and cements his place as one of Hollywoodâs top performers.
Third, it is a somber, deeply moving story that may well keep you âtossing and turningâ for a night or two. It has some realistic and distressing moments about the reality of life as a Japanese prisoner of war, during and after the 1942 siege of Singapore. Jeremy Irvine is superb as the younger version of Lomax, whose courage kept him alive through one dreaded moment after another.
The story is set in 1980 in the little British village of Berwick-uponâTweed, Lomaxâs home town. Still struggling with his past memories, Lomax survives with his fetish for railroads and trains, riding them here and there. On one of his trips he has a chance encounter with Patti, played by Nicole Kidman, who becomes one of the first positive experiences in Lomax’s life in 35 years.
The Railway Man
Entertainment Rating: ★★★1/2
Rating: R, Graphic scenes of prisoner of war torture, no profanity, no sex, strictly adult theme
Possible Oscar Nominations: Best Film, Best Actor, Colin Firth, Best Supporting Actor, Jeremy Irvine, Set Decoration, Film Editing, Cinematography.
In the meantime, through flashbacks, we watch disturbing scenes of his life as a P.O.W., a solemn reminder that âwar is hell,â no matter what decade it took place in. Eventually Lomax decides if he is to survive this life, he has to confront his demons from the past, and wreak some sort of revenge. From this point forward, the story takes a decided turn, and I donât recall moving once in my seat as the movie headed for an entirely unexpected ending.
Normally when I see a film this well done I encourage everyone to see it. The caveat, of course, are some of the P.O.W. scenes where torture takes place â not a pleasant sight. On the other hand, quite innocently, Eric Lomax may have shed some additional light and further discussion regarding that very topic which became âfront and centerâ after 9/11. You decide.
Questions or comments, e mail me at tsansom2002@gmail.com.
