To Olivia Film Review
Summary: This film is another example of a quiet bio-pic about a writer. It is not fit to hold a candle to its protagonist’s genius.
2.85
No peach
Roald Dahl was one of the world’s greatest storytellers. This same compliment cannot be extended to the scriptwriters of his bio-pic, “To Olivia.” This drama is an understated one that lacks the magical pixie dust we all associate with its protagonist.
“To Olivia” is based on a biography of Dahl’s wife by Stephen Michael Shearer. John Hay directs this film, which stars the loveable, Hugh Bonneville, as the big, friendly giant, ahem author. It is quite a sober portrayal, as the story focuses on a few years where the Dahl family grappled with the aftermath of a tragedy.
Fans of Dahl’s will enjoy the little Easter eggs in this film. For instance, we see the inspiration behind Augustus Gloop, a character in “Charlie & The Chocolate Factory” and the scrumdidlyumptious ever-lasting gobstopper in the same book. These are the lighter moments in a tale that ultimately examines the grief and loss flet when Dahl’s favourite daughter Olivia dies from encephalitis induced by the measles.
Geoffrey Palmer plays his final role as a priest helping Dahl and his American film star wife, Patricia Neal (Keeley Hawes) through their loss. The couple would become vocal pro-vaccinators. Some big emotions are considered here, but only at the surface level. This has a quiet and subtle pace, and sadly Dahl is portrayed as an immensely dislikeable and cantankerous drunk, which may be true but is disappointing in a film that is liberal with the truth.
“To Olivia” could have been a sweet slice of escapism about the eccentric and beloved children’s author. Instead, it pulls back and examines how a family negotiate their way through grief. It is a handsome enough period piece but one ultimately lacking the heart-warming irreverence and smarts we love and associate with all things Roald Dahl.
About the Author
Natalie Salvo Natalie is a Sydney-based writer and lover of all things music, food, photography comedy, art, theatre. You can find her digging in crates at good record stores.
Related Posts
Looney Tunes Blast Off to the Big Screen with ‘The Day the Earth Blew Up’ →
Gladiator II – Film Review →
Thrilling New Survival Film Killer Whale Begins Production in Brisbane →
