First Take: Goodbye Christopher Robin- the untold story of the icon of everyone’s childhood

SYPNOSIS: A behind-the-scenes look at the life of author
A.A. Milne and the creation of the Winnie the Pooh stories inspired by his son
C.R. Milne.

This film is another one that I’ve seen the trailer for on
the newly installed media wall at my local cinema, and considering the cast,
it’s one that I just had to review- and dare I say it, this could be a
contender for Outstanding British Film at next year’s BAFTAs.

What Simon Curtis has made is a brilliantly executed 1 hour
47 minute look at the untold story of the creation of the Winnie the Pooh
books, and with his sublime pacing, and the addition of an outstanding script
from Frank Cottrell Boyce and Simon Vaughn, the technical talents behind this
one are outstanding (especially as Damian Jones, one of the most prominent men
in British cinema today is producing it). The cinematography from Ben Smithard
is slick and elegant, and Carter Burwell once again provides a score that
brings the emotions (most notably in the final act) home.

And that brings me on to the cast. All of them are
fantastic, with Domhnall Gleeson nailing it as A.A Milne throughout, and paired
with Margot Robbie, the film’s leads are infinitely likable and the chemistry
is definitely there. Kelly Macdonald also puts in some great work in a
supporting role, but the real star of the show is Will Tilston making his
feature film debut- every time he is on screen I can see a promising future for
him, and I am looking forward to seeing his career unfold. The film is quite
rightly stacked with talent, and with Curtis directing them so well, I can
honestly say that awards season begins here.

THE VERDICT

Goodbye Christopher Robin is a film that both capitalises on
nostalgia and builds on it to tell a story that hasn’t really been in the
mainstream for long- with the perfect combination of a great script, great
direction and a great cast, it’s safe to say that awards season has already got
off to a good start.

RATING: 5/5