User reviews

After having read the book by Michelle Magorian, which is engaging and of interest, as all of her books are, this make was very disappointing. Nothing seemed to fit well in terms of the plot, it was unfocused, and major storylines had been left out as the book progressed. There was very good acting, especially from Stephanie Cole, Sarah Lancashire, and newcomer Jessica Fox, but it is by no means up to scratch on Goodnight Mr. Tom. That was much better directed and was a far more convincing adaptation. For all its faults however, it kept me going to the end, and was enjoyable. Wouldn't watch it again, though I would like to see the earlier version to compare.

6 out of 10 (That's generous).

I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy this movie because it seemed to move at a snail's pace. It turns out this approach was perfect. Without realizing it until half way through the movie, I discovered that I had established an emotional relationship with each character, a development I wasn't expecting. Well done. Absolutely worth watching. And, once again, Sarah Lancashire was outstanding. That slow burn hit all the right notes.