Song For Marion (2013) Review

“Song For Marion” is a modest little movie which tells its simple story with such grace and class that it’s impossible to resist it’s reassuringly redemptive message. Much of the story’s set-up is done in the scenes chosen for the trailer and the film unfolds as you would expect, with no surprising twists or turns. The real joy here is in seeing masters at work. Vanessa Redgrave and Terrance Stamp imbue Marion and Arthur with such authenticity that you can’t help but be swept up in both the joy and despair which they live through. They elevate the material to another level entirely while Christopher Ecclestone provides solid support as Arthur’s estranged son  The real revelation here, though, is Gemma Arterton who, in the company of such accomplished performers, finds a measure of genuine warmth and humanity that has so far eluded her in her film career.

Writer/ Director Paul Andrew Williams cements his growing reputation as one to watch, handling his cast well and balancing the drama and comedy with a deft and true-to-life touch. The film is attractively shot, providing a proper cinematic feel despite the setting which could so easily have looked like a made for TV movie drama. Eschewing melodrama for a lighter, more sanguine look at terminal illness, “Song For Marion” is ultimately about life, not loss and is all the richer for it.

7/10