A Song for Marion (AKA Unfinished Song)
Dir: Paul Andrew Williams
2012
****
A Song for Marion sounds like and looks like one of those sickly sweat British drama/comedies that pull on the heartstrings, give a false representation of British life for the sake of an American audience and generally do well but are in reality quite dreadful. It's not any of those things although at times it comes dangerously close. Firstly, the director is a trustworthy one. Paul Andrew Williams is good at what he does and isn't a sell out. Secondly, Gemma Arterton aside, the cast is great; Terence Stamp and Vanessa Redgrave are both perfect in their roles and both give an honest and rewarding performance. I didn't care for the ending too much but it worked. It did pull on the heartstrings but not gratuitously. Apart from the fact I wanted Stamp to turn around and shout "Kneel before Zod" and he didn't, I can't say I was the least bit disappointed. Recommended.