When I have read - or watched- critiques of this film ,I had to wonder if I had watched a different one . This is a magnificent piece of cinema .. on all levels .
Criticisms of too much going on … the old cinema and the characters and lovers of their craft , the Thatcherite bovver boy era , add to the times in which the major relationship between the 2 leads is set
Times which were anathema to any of the social freedoms we now enjoy
Brilliantly acted by Coleman and no less Micheal Ward this is a beautiful story of love , kindness, longing and generosity
The hopelessness but depth of mutual feeling is reminiscent of the film Bridges of Madison County .
This is a deep and wondrous exploration of the human heart .It is not a mawkish , overworked tale of unrequited love .. much more adult and nuanced . I loved it and recommend it to anyone who is prepared to take the journey - it is well worth it