User reviews

The story of Harold Fry's 500 mile walk from Devon to the English border with Scotland is well translated to the big screen by director Hettie MacDonald in this low key but very watchable film. When retired Brewery manager Harold (Jim Broadbent) receives a letter from an old work colleague that she is dying in a hospice at the the other end of the country in Berwick-upon-Tweed, he writes a letter. However feeling it is not enough, he cannot bring himself to post it and, after talking to a shopgirl in a petrol station, decides on the spot to walk to see her, leaving his wife Maureen (Penelope Wilton) sick with worry and frantic about being on her own. As Harold makes his way up north his 'Pilgrimage' starts to become public knowledge and he soon attracts a following on both social media and then the headline news. On the journey he meets an assortment of characters, from a well meaning and helpful Slovakian woman, a woman on a farm, a stranger at a railway station, a pill popping confused 18 year old, a stray dog and a small following of people who want to join his pilgrimage. And as Harold makes his journey we start to learn that his life and relationship with Maureen is not as boring as it seems, for beneath the surface he is masking a terrible tragedy and a fractured relationship.

The story might be slight but I found it nonetheless compelling. Both Broadbent and Wilton produce powerful performances and as the film progresses their characters personalities start to make sense. The film is also well made and full of good performances and doesn't feel overlong.

If you've seen the Timothy Spall film 'The Last Bus' (2021), the Robert Redford film 'A Walk in the Woods' (2015) or the Emilio Estevez/Martin Sheen film 'The Way' (2010) then some of this may seem vaguely familiar to you as, like them, this is a gentle road movie that is in part, about using the journey as a way of self discovery and confronting ones own emotional issues that will appeal to older viewers in particular. It is a well acted drama with a ring of truth to it that should appeal to those enjoy gentle drama.

In a bid to avoid the rush of people going to see Guardians this weekend I decided to catch up on last weeks new release that I unfortunately missed. The unlikely pilgrimage of Harold Fry is one of those small British films that we maybe get once or twice a year that are mainly targeted towards the older generation. The film takes next to no time to get going as it opens with Harold played by the always brilliant Jim Broadbent receiving a letter from an old friend. The letter reads that Queenie who Harold used to work with but hasn't seen for a long time has been admitted to a hospice and is in the final stages of cancer. Initially Harold writes a letter back but on his way to the post office he meets someone who changes his mind and he decides to walk from the south of England to the North some just under 500 miles as he believes he can save Queenies life by doing so. This film is very much about people, the good, the bad and the human spirit of being able to make mistakes in life but not having to feel like those mistakes define you. Along his journey we learn a lot about Harold and his life and ultimately the real reason he has embarked on his journey but I won't say any more as not to spoil it. I think the thing this film surprised me the most with was that it's really deep and real and I left the cinema actually feeling quite emotional rather than uplifted as you'd perhaps expect with this type of thing. Yes some of the pacing isn't perfect and heck perhaps you wanted a feel good film but this was different and it gave me something I look for in films which is great writing that accurately represents real human emotion. I thought this film was really thought provoking and despite the somber mood it left me in I also left feeling that as humans we don't have to change the world, sometimes just giving someone a smile on a day when they're really struggling can make the world of difference to them. I can't recommend this film enough, especially if you like thought provoking drama but if you do go and see it perhaps tell your partner where you're going first.

This, for me, is a "companion piece" to last year's LIVING, since it again has an elderly gent in the central role. Like other "road movies", the film alternates between motivation and meetings. Harold crosses paths with a few fairly ordinary people who each have a tale to tell. At one stage he becomes a kind of Messiah figure, leading a flock of followers, but he arrives in Berwick on his own to resolve the issue of the dying woman's role in his life.

I got a slight sense of "wokeness" being applied to both the characters and the actors, and there are a few scenes that don't really ring true. The best element is the seesaw on which Harold's marriage is quietly riding.

Jim Broadbent and Penelope Wilton are two fine actors on top form here. This is another small movie with a big heart which it wears on its sleeve.

Jim Broadbent and Penelope Wilton. That's all I needed to know to go see this film. Both deliver incredible performances ranging from that unique British wit, the inevitable pulled heartstrings to having it outright ripped out of your chest.

Thematically, the film asks us to let go of the things we think we need - the things that hold us back. Which Maureen (Wilton), wife of Harold for at least a few decades, rightfully takes quite personally. You wonder why Maureen just let's Harold leave, but we discover later she's not completely in the right, either.

Unfortunately, the supporting cast feel forced, two-dimensional and pepper Harold's journey purely to impart information that could be taken or left behind. This isn't helped by the stunted pacing and frequent B-roll cutaways to presumably things Harold wouldn't have seen if hadn't set off on his adventure.

The social media/celebrity element leaves a bad taste in the mouth, and his first follower appears endearing at first but then descends into cult follower territory trying to find meaning from someone else's cause.

Again, I cannot emphasise enough the stellar performances by both leads. I'm tearing up just watching the trailer while writing this. The film is let down by its supporting cast and weird editing.

I didn't know this was based off a book so I can't make any comparisons with the source material.

But if I were to give this a second viewing, I'd only watch the scenes with Harold and Maureen interacting with each other, with one notable exception: when Harold asks for a glass of water in a café. Heartbreaking.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is a heartwarming and emotional film that tells the story of Harold Fry, an ordinary man who decides to embark on a pilgrimage to deliver a letter to his old friend Queenie. The film is a slow burn, starting as a simple story of a man walking, but it gradually builds into a poignant examination of grief, guilt, and eventual closure.

Jim Broadbent delivers an excellent performance as Harold Fry, capturing the character's quiet desperation and eventual transformation as he walks the 600-mile journey. Penelope Wilton is also good as Harold's wife, Maureen, who is hurt and confused by her husband's sudden departure.

The film's direction by Hettie Macdonald is ok, with the cinematography and production design capturing the beauty of the British countryside. The score also adds to the story's emotional weight.

However, the plot can sometimes be implausible, and some supporting characters feel underdeveloped. The pacing is often ploddingly slow.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is an occasionally touching and poignant film that, while not perfect, may be worth watching for the performances and emotional resonance. But it never really manages to reach its potential.

Lovely movie, with the ever so lovely Jim Broadbent and Penelope Wilton as the typical retired couple, going about their humdrum lives, until the post arrives from an old friend of Harold's. Life just isn't the same again, as something inside Harold beckons him on a journey, which unfolds the reason of why he must take the journey. Wonderfully captured, but I kept thinking I had watched it before. And I had. The equally excellent Timothy Spall in the Last Bus, travelling the length of the UK with his wife's ashes to the place they met in Lands End. If you like Jim Broadbent as Harold Fry, you will love Timothy Spall in The Last Bus.

The cinematography of this film is beautiful - a story full of fleeting moments and what-ifs, and the impact that small actions can have on the people we come across. A life-affirming and thought-provoking movie that will make you want to be a better person. Gently heartfelt acting from a top-flight cast.

If you're looking for dramatic plot lines and fireworks, this movie is not for you. However, if you want to enjoy a couple of hours with some glimpses of English scenery and weather - and the repressed emotions so typical of the English temperament - while reviewing your personal relationships, this is a wonderful piece of unassuming filmmaking.

Even the extraordinary talents of Jim Broadbent and his screen wife Penelope Wilton aren't quite enough to make this meandering 'road' movie worth the effort.

Curiosity is piqued enough to engage us at the beginning, because the 'why' of the protagonists actions is withheld from us. The slow, episodic and meandering narrative journey is occasionally interesting, sometimes believable, sometimes not, but JB can and does hold our interest with that rare gift of the genius actor, a glimpse at a 'real' human.

When we do finally learn of the 'why' it's a sort of confused thing that requires us to understand and care about the various weaknesses and failures of our hero and to a lesser extent his wife. This is easy because they have endured something terrible, however they then did or didn't cope and whatever they did or didn't do as a consequence. But then as the denouement appears and we might expect some emotional pay off, there is none. Or at least none that justifies all that investment. Did the pilgrimage make a difference to anyone? Did Harold really learn anything? Is forgiveness required, does forgiveness matter, does it need to be articulated to count, who knows, and it feels like the director doesnt care to show us her view. In what is for me a failure in much modern storytelling, we are again it seems to make up our own minds. Fine, I'll decide what i believe or not, but at least show me what you feel and what the characters believe, right or wrong. Tell the end of the story and ion your bloody flag to the mast. Personally I can't not enjoy Jim Broadbent on the big screen in almost every scene. But i Can feel flat at the end when it all ends with a Phfft. One more thing...why cast Linda Bassett ands then give her nothing to do? What a waste. I hope she was well paid.

This might not win many awards or get critical acclaim, but it will probably make you cry and certainly make you think about life.

A poignant film, which Broadbent shines as much as he ever has. From the people he meets along the way to the affect his decisions have on those he leaves behind. It's a beautiful story of a simple act that one man made to try to bring some meaning and importance to a life that was just originate but full of regret.

A very good way to spend a few hours, especially if you have someone in your life who is struggling with an illness. There's probably a lot more you could do for them.

I did not leave the cinema feeling happy after watching this film.

It's extremely depressing, I expected more laughs but got only a few "humph" moments of comedy that didn't warrant a real laugh. Ultimately it's a miserable story about loss and grief that leaves you feeling well and truly deflated, I've no idea how any of the other reviews could describe the story as uplifting, every motivated moment Harold has, as a consequence destroys his wife who is at home crying her eyes out.

Jim Broadbent and cast perform well, the characters really get to you and I felt sympathy and occasionally anger towards all the main characters.

My advice is just don't watch this film if you're having a bad week, you'll fall into a depression and most likely swan dive from the nearest bridge or building.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is a wonderful, heart warming and at times heart wrenching story of Harold Fry who decides to walk 500 miles to visit an old dying friend, whilst leaving his wife and life behind him.

This story has so many lessons to teach.

The things I took away from it are 1. You can't save everyone. 2. Some people are on their own path and you can't change that. 3. Sometimes people or animals come into our life and leave just as suddenly, but it was with purpose. 4. That life is meant to be lived. I could keep going on, however I just urge you to watch this beautiful film.

Jim Broadbent is of course marvellous, and the supporting cast of tag alongside are funny, but this good hearted film ultimately is about loss and pain and the director and writer never manage to lift us far enough away from tragedy to gain insight and relief.

Ultimately a morbid rather depressing story which leave us feeling down.

The dog who adopts JB and leaves to care for another souls is brilliant, and the realisation by the protagonist's wife that she is a very selfish person is cathartic, but the writer cannot escape her own desire to make us live the pain forever.

Not why I go to the flicks.

Harold Fry (Jim Broadbent) is getting on in life. He doesn't feel it though, drifting through it as he has. Until one day he receives an unexpected letter. Setting off to the postbox with his reply, Harold finds himself reluctant to take the easy option, a choice that rewards him with a series of life lessons that will warm your heart... or roll your eyes depending on your level of cynicism. It's called The Unlikely Pilgrimage of... and it certainly is. Harold setting out to walk from his home in Devon to see his dying friend Queenie (Linda Bassett), who lives in Berwick-upon-Tweed. Bonkers right? His wife Maureen (Penelope Wilton) certainly thinks so. He's not exactly prepared and there's no plan, but he learns as he goes. As do we. It's got an air of fantasy, but remains oddly anchored through his somewhat predicable rather British adventures, although it does valiantly attempt to throw the odd curveball. Essentially it's one big visual metaphor as we learn that Harold hasn't always been in touch with his feelings or those of others, but for all its blunt plot points, it is quaintly inspirational. It's nicely shot too and achieves the feeling of Harold's journey across the country, showing England off in a rather beautiful light. Broadbent is brilliant. Simple delivery, understated, that warmth in his face filling the screen. The supporting cast too, from a brief cameo with Claire Rushbrook, all too brief glimpses of Earl Cave as Harold's remembered son and his somewhat adopted one Daniel Frogson, who as Wilf is the first of many to tag along. It's as much about Harold though, as it is about Maureen left at home. Their relationship, what it's been missing. What they need as people, maybe what we all need. Despite all this loftiness, it's not a great film, but regardless I really enjoyed it. Understanding what drives Harold, there's more to this than what's put on the screen.

Life is a journey and for that journey you better have hope or it's all hopeless.

"The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry" is one of those movies the Brits do so well.

A simple, joyful story, wonderful actors, clever director, marvellous scenery and very little, if any, CGI.

Who better to play "Harold" than Jim Broadbent, giving another masterclass in acting from the heart.

"Harold" is an ordinary man who has passed through life, living on the side lines, seemingly doing nothing significant with his life, until he goes to post a letter one day...and just keeps walking on the flippant advice of a service station attendant.

Jim's supported by Penelope Wilton as his long suffering wife, "Maureen".

Her journey is made all the more difficult because she has to cope with it by herself.

Together they harbour a grief that has torn them asunder and threatens to derail their marriage.

Hettie MacDonald directs her players to perfection.

Watch out for: Nick Cave's son Earl as "David" in a pivotal role.

The movie uses a screenplay adapted by author Rachel Joyce from her own 2012 best seller.

Broadbent also narrated the audiobook version of this story...so he's very familiar with the material.

Throughout "Harold's" 500 mile walk I really wanted to hear the Proclaimers just once, but its not included in the soundtrack, however it is referenced in a sign held by one of Frys' Pilgrims.

"Pilgrims" are the people who attach themselves to "Harold" on the course of his 60 plus days hoofing it from one end of the UK to the other to support a friend who's terminally ill.

The "Pilgrims" are a social commentary on how lost people need something to believe in no matter how banal.

"The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry" felt like what if we knew what actually happened to "Forest Gump" on his pilgrimage across the US and it wasn't just a film montage.

This low budget, slow paced drama will have you reaching for your Kleenex tissues and cheering on this ordinary man achieving extraordinary things and renewing your faith in humanity along his journey.

England itself becomes a character.

Nature plays an incredibly strong part in "The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry" as does the landscape and the people he meets.

You'll want to feel you're with Harold on this journey.

It's a very filmic road movie.

Must admit as I get older I prefer these types of films (with proper acting) over the usual high budget US style action, guns, explosions, cgi type films.

The story and acting is good but I personally found the the ending was disappointing - one of those "is that it" moments. Would have rated a lot higher if the ending was better - would still recommend this film though.

Oh, and if you want to see excellent face acting watch the scene when he's talking to the chap at Exeter train station - best bit of the entire movie - he didn't need to say a word, Jim Broadbent's facial expression says it all - brilliant...

'The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry' (2023)

Opening thoughts: For me, there is always at least one reason for seeing any, show, production etc. The most common reasons being good concepts, liking actors and/or directors involved and completest sake. There were a lot of reasons for watching 'The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry'. Being a lover of inspirational true story-like films. Being someone who loves Jim Broadbent and Penelope Wilton. Being someone who loves many British films, being a Brit myself. That it was reviewed relatively positively. And as someone who is trying to see more recent films lately.

Seeing it as part of a belated birthday present, to me and my sister 'The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry' was very, very good if not quite masterpiece level. Being moved and/or inspired by something is always an absolutely wonderful thing, and 'The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry' did both of those for both of us. It is one of those films that deserves a wider audience, but it is alas not one of the types of films film goers typically see.

Bad things: It isn't perfect. It is unlikely at times with a few too many coincidental, convenient encounters. Most of the supporting characters are on the sketchy side.

Also found the ending a little too pat, with it making Harold somewhat too forgiving.

Good things: Broadbent however is absolutely first rate, very charming but he is also very affecting. Really liked Harold as a character, found him very inspiring and relatable, despite making bad mistakes in the past (having had bad mistakes in the past myself that still couldn't make me judge him negatively) the film does a great job showing his regret and determination in putting things right and making a positive difference. Which pretty much is what the film is all about.

Wilton is also very commanding in a difficult role, as a character really does hate at times with some pretty cold decision making (while also understanding her point of view at other times), with grace. Even when apart most of the time, the chemistry between them scintillates. The support is solid, though never on the two leads' level, and the direction is sympathetic and no nonsense.

Furthermore, the scenery is absolutely exquisite (with a healthy dose of Devon) shot beautifully. The music fits the gentle tone very well and never felt overused or intrusive. The script provokes a lot of thought and pulls punches when needed without going too far, the flashbacks in particular. The pacing is very gentle bit never dull and the story is touching and inspirational. Complete with an uplifting message, one that was so easy to identify with and wasn't laid on too thick.

Closing thoughts: Overall, very good.

8/10.

My Review-

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry (2023) My Rating 6/10

Based on on the 2012 novel of the same name by Rachel Joyce is a British film directed by Hettie Macdonald with a screen by Rachel Joyce.

The film stars Jim Broadbent and Penelope Wilton cast as husband and wife Harold and Maureen Fry . These 2 veteran performers who play a couple whose marriage effectively disintegrated with their son David's suicide about 20 years previously give superb performances in what I call a very average movie.

I couldn't help comparing The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry to the 2021 movie that starred Timothy Spall titled The Last Bus . I scored that movie an 8/10 both movies are about pilgrimages The Last Bus in my view is a far superior movie based on a true story about an aging man who travels across the UK by bus to fulfill his pledge to spread his late wife's ashes near their first home at Land's End.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is not a true story also about a elderly man who receives a letter from an old friend Queenie who played an important role in his life to say she is dying in a hospice in Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Harold is inspired to walk the length of England despite his wife's anxiety hoping to keep Queenie alive till he arrives to say goodbye.

I thought the movie became over sentimental and frankly a bit silly when Harold becomes an unwilling media celebrity and begins to attract groupies to join him including a very troubled young man and a little dog that looks as old as Harold. People in the different villages recognise Harold and he almost becomes a pop star icon until he realises he needs to compete his pilgrimage alone.

I think surely the novel by Rachel Joyce is better than her screenplay ?

Her first novel was a long-list finalist for the 2012 Man Booker Prize winning the UK National Book Award for New Writer of the Year Hettie Macdonald is a fine Director of such great series as Howard's End , Normal People , The Tunnel and A Beautiful Thing plus Doctor Who but this latest movie in my opinion is not her finest moment.

Harold Fry received word that his old friend Queenie has cancer, and is dying, he chooses to send a letter, butt a conversation with a blue haired girl in a garage makes him travel to her on foot.

Enchanting, this is an incredible movie, I'd go so far as to say my favourite movie of 2023, I'll try and explain why, I have actually read the book, and for my shame, I'd all but forgotten it.

The story, well let's be honest, it's enchanting, it's simple, but has so many layers, it's incredible rich, from its basic outline, through to the various snippets along the journey, the people he meets, his relationship with Maureen, and of course the complex relationship with his son.

The performances are divine, Jim Broadbent, I don't care what anyone says, he's one of the best, he's produced some killer performances over the years, but this one takes some beating, he genuinely had me in tears.

Penelope Wilton also, fabulous, what an actress, she got a huge amount out of the part.

For me, films like these are the best, ninety minutes of magic.

10/10.

I read the book a couple of years ago and was quite looking forward to seeing the film but knew they'd cut bits out.

I was glad that the hippy mob featured for far shorter than in the book and it kind of pares everything down to be far more linear.

However, some things got lost and some things were crammed in without getting their full dues. This resulted in less humour and more sentimentality.

Both of the lead actors were great and the cinematography was outstanding but I can't help feeling that the tone of the book was lost by some of the editing choices.

An emotional examination of guilt and life choices that is a bit of a tear jerker but could have retained the balance of its source material.