Their Finest Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A woman gets a job writing propaganda, which turns into a surprisingly accurate depiction of the creative process: messy, frustrating, and occasionally punctuated by falling objects.

🍿 Their Finest: Detailed Plot Synopsis

A Woman’s Touch in Wartime

During the London Blitz of World War II, Catrin Cole, a Welsh woman, is recruited by the British Ministry of Information. Her task is to write scripts for propaganda films aimed at boosting public morale. Catrin is brought on to provide a “woman’s touch,” crafting realistic dialogue for female characters, though initially, she faces sexism and unequal pay in her role. She lives with her partner Ellis, an artist struggling to find success, in a city constantly threatened by air raids.

The Dunkirk Story

Catrin is assigned to research a story about twin sisters who supposedly sailed to Dunkirk to rescue soldiers. However, she discovers that the twins’ involvement was greatly exaggerated. Despite this, she and her colleagues, Tom Buckley and Raymond Parfitt, decide to proceed with a film based on the ‘spirit’ of the story, embellishing it for propaganda purposes. They begin work on a fictionalized version of the event, titled “The Nancy Starling.”

Battling Sexism and Artistic Compromises

As Catrin and her team work on “The Nancy Starling,” they face numerous challenges. They struggle with sexism within the Ministry, artistic compromises dictated by political pressures, and the constant threat of the Blitz. The addition of a talentless American pilot, Carl Lundbeck, to appeal to US audiences further complicates the production. Meanwhile, tensions rise between Catrin and her partner Ellis as her career flourishes and he struggles to find his own artistic footing.

Romantic Entanglements and Heartbreak

During the filming process, a romantic connection develops between Catrin and her colleague Tom Buckley. As they spend more time together, their relationship deepens, leading to a complex love triangle with Ellis. Catrin eventually discovers Ellis cheating on her and breaks off the relationship. She and Tom grow closer, but their budding romance is tragically cut short when Tom is killed in an accident on set.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Catrin Cole (Gemma Arterton): A resourceful and determined Welsh woman who becomes a scriptwriter for propaganda films during the London Blitz, navigating sexism and personal challenges.
• Tom Buckley (Sam Claflin): A cynical but talented screenwriter who initially clashes with Catrin but eventually respects her work and develops romantic feelings.
• Ambrose Hilliard (Bill Nighy): A pompous and aging actor who grapples with his declining fame while participating in the propaganda film production.
• Ellis Cole (Jack Huston): Catrin’s struggling artist partner, whose insecurities rise as Catrin’s career flourishes during wartime.
• Phyl Moore (Rachael Stirling): A no-nonsense and supportive colleague who works at the Ministry of Information, providing guidance to Catrin.
• Roger Swain (Richard E. Grant): Catrin’s boss at the Ministry of Information.
• Sophie Smith (Helen McCrory): The pragmatic and supportive sister of Sammy, who takes over his agency work representing Ambrose Hilliard.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Phyl Moore: “They’re afraid they won’t be able to put us back in the box when this is over, and it makes them belligerent.” – Phyl discusses the challenges women face in a male-dominated industry during wartime, reflecting their fear of losing newfound empowerment.
• Tom Buckley: “Film. Real life with the boring bits cut out.” – Tom explains his philosophy on filmmaking, highlighting the need to create engaging stories that resonate with audiences during wartime.
• Ambrose Hilliard: “I’m perfectly happy to play an old man, as long as I can play him as a virile old man.” – Ambrose Hilliard humorously expresses his vanity and desire to maintain a glamorous image despite his declining years as an actor.

💰Box Office

• Budget: €10,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $3,603,484
• Worldwide Gross: $12,597,262

💥 Their Finest Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely loved this movie! The characters were so well-developed, and I felt completely invested in their stories. Gemma Arterton was fantastic. The film-within-a-film aspect was brilliant, and the ending, though heartbreaking, felt incredibly poignant. I cried, I laughed, and I left the theater feeling like I’d experienced something truly special. Definitely a must-see!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of historical dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in World War II stories”
  • “Those who appreciate films about filmmaking”
  • “People who enjoy character-driven stories with elements of romance and humor”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “War themes and depictions of the Blitz”
  • “Some scenes of violence and death”
  • “Mild language”
  • “Brief depiction of infidelity”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “A charming and emotionally resonant film about the power of storytelling in wartime. Gemma Arterton shines, and Bill Nighy steals every scene he’s in. A delightful blend of humor and heart.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “An enjoyable period piece with strong performances, but occasionally struggles to balance its comedic and dramatic elements. Still, a worthwhile watch for fans of British cinema.

Audience Reactions

Bill Nighy’s performance was pure comedic gold!: The acting was superb across the board, particularly Bill Nighy who gave a master class in comedic timing.

The portrayal of wartime London felt incredibly authentic.: The film beautifully captured the atmosphere and spirit of wartime London.

Overall Consensus: A well-acted and charming film with a poignant story about the power of storytelling during wartime.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film is based on the novel ‘Their Finest Hour and a Half’ by Lissa Evans.”
• “The movie features a film within a film, showcasing the process of making a propaganda movie during World War II.”
• “Director Lone Scherfig is known for her work in other British productions like ‘An Education’ and ‘The Riot Club’.”

🖥️ How to Watch Their Finest?

Their Finest is available to rent or purchase on various platforms, including Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for streaming availability and pricing. It is also available on DVD and Blu-ray for physical purchase.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Their Finest, you might like these similar films:

• Atonement (2007): Both films explore the impact of World War II on British society and feature strong female characters navigating complex relationships amidst wartime.
• An Education (2009): Directed by Lone Scherfig, shares similar themes of a young woman coming of age in Britain during a transformative period, with a focus on personal growth and societal expectations.
• Darkest Hour (2017): Set during World War II, capturing the tense atmosphere and the British spirit amidst the Blitz. Focuses on political leadership during wartime.

🛒 Their Finest Related Products

• Their Finest (Blu-ray): Own the critically acclaimed movie with exclusive behind-the-scenes features. Perfect for movie buffs and collectors!
• Their Finest Hour and a Half: The captivating novel behind the film: Experience the original story in Lissa Evans’ witty and heartwarming novel. Explore the full narrative depth and nuanced characters that inspired the movie.
• Keep Calm and Carry On Poster – Vintage World War II British Propaganda Art: A high-quality reproduction of the iconic poster, symbolizing resilience and determination during the Blitz.
• World War II Era British Civilian Gas Mask Bag – Replica: Authentic-looking replica bag, as seen in the film. Great for display or costume purposes.

🎧 Soundtrack

Their Finest features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Brighton Promenade” – performed by Anthony Mawer
• “God Save the King” – performed by Various Artists

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Darkest Hour | Based on a True Story

Ever wondered how accurate ‘Darkest Hour’ really is? This video breaks down the true story behind the film, pointing out what’s fact and what’s fiction. I found it super interesting to see where the movie took creative liberties!

✨ Rate