Mum’s List **** (2016, Rafe Spall, Emilia Fox, Elaine Cassidy, Ross McCormack, Sophie Simnett) – Movie Review

Emilia Fox and particularly Rafe Spall give the most poignant and brilliant performances as a loving married couple in this heart-rending real-life story.

In an obvious labour of love, Mum’s List is very carefully and painstakingly handled by director Niall Johnson.

Based on the best-selling book by St John (Singe) Greene, the film tells the story of Somerset couple Singe and Kate, whose lives are turned upside down when Kate is diagnosed with breast cancer. Writing her thoughts and memories, she makes her mum’s list to help the man she loves to make the best life for their two young sons, Reef and Finn (William Stagg, Matthew Stagg).

Ross McCormack and Sophie Simnett are sweet as the teenage Sinje and Kate in the many flashbacks to the happy days when the couple first met and fell in love. Bobby Lockwood as Sinje’s younger brother Matt and Richard Cordery and Susan Jameson as his mum and dad Bob and Christine also help.

It is a huge emotional rollercoaster and it raises lots of issues and questions as well to argue about afterwards.

Mum’s List is in UK cinemas from 25 November.

© Derek Winnert 2016 Movie Review

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