Three years old and wrapped in a Union Jack to protect him from the sun, Laurie Lee arrived in the village of Slad in the final summer of the First World War. Overall, the film deserves a 7.5 out of 10.This international-bestselling memoir of childhood in post–World War I rural England is one of the most “remarkable” portraits of youth in all literature ( The New York Times). Archie Cox was also captivating, as the older Laurie. Timothy Spall’s narration definitely improved the film as well. Although Georgie Smith’s accent was a little difficult to understand at times, the young actor took control of the role and did a fabulous job. The ride might leave the viewer longing for more, but it is ultimately one that is well worth experiencing.Īlso, the acting is great. These events help to make Laurie Lee’s childhood very relevant and familiar. Unfortunately, Annie Lee’s marital problems are certainly still prevalent in today’s society. Despite the differentials from today’s world, some things never change. Due to technology, those childhood activities are dissipating rapidly and most modern children will never wear a cooker, carry a branch and pretend to be a soldier on the nearby hillside.Ĭider With Rosie allows the viewer to relive these moments through the eyes and voice of Laurie Lee. The childhood of Laurie Lee is ultimately one that is tremendously unique in today’s society.

The tale is scattered at times and leaves a lot to the imagination, but the heart and soul of the film cannot be ignored.

So, how is the film? Well, as someone, who has never read the book or watched the previous films, I enjoyed it. The film is somewhat like Boyhood, but it covers so much more and takes place in the First World War era. In order to prevent myself from giving too much away, I’ll stop there. This exposes Laurie to his first look at romance and coincides with older Laurie’s first sign of interest in women. Laurie’s old sister falls for an AWOL soldier, Private James Harris (Billy Howle). While young Laurie begins to explore his sexuality, young Laurie explored his imagination and pretends to be a soldier.

Along the way, Laurie surrounds himself with a quirky cast of characters, including the energetic and profane Rosie (Ruby Ashbourne Serkis).

The film perfectly exemplifies the coming of age genre and refuses to go any further. Although the jumps are periodic and frequent, it is even difficult to keep up. Around this point in the film, we begin experiencing time wraps, with the film flashing ahead to an older Laurie (Archie Cox). Laurie Lee falls ill, but it is his sister, Frances, who suddenly passes away. The kid’s mother, Annie Lee (Samantha Morton) remains hopeful that her husband will visit them and permanently reconnect in the future.

Author cider with rosie