Churchill is considered by many to be visionary, and one of the most charismatic wartime leaders in history. Often controversial, frequently antagonistic, and notably eloquent, he enjoyed a remarkably long career spanning more than 50 years. His reign as British Prime Minister during World War II is regarded as one of the most successful Britain has ever had. At a time when the British Parliament chose to look away from the truth in an attempt for peace, Churchill stood tall to warn his country and the world against the Nazi threat. Set against the backdrop of Chartwell, his beloved country home and refuge, this multi-award winning drama offers an intimate look at the nation's greatest Briton, his marriage to Clementine (Vanessa Redgrave), his moods and his mastery of politics during a particularly troubled, though little known, period in his life.
Directed by
Richard Loncraine
Written by
Larry Ramin (story); Hugh Whitemore (story); Hugh Whitemore (teleplay).
Starring
Albert Finney (Winston Churchill); Vanessa Redgrave (Clemmie Churchill); Jim Broadbent (Desmond Morton); Linus Roache (Ralph Wigram); Lena Headey (Ava Wigram); Derek Jacobi (Stanley Baldwin); Ronnie Barker (David Inches); Tom Wilkinson (Sir Robert Vansittart); Celia Imrie (Violet Pearman); Hugh Bonneville (Ivo Pettifer); Gottfried John (Friedrich von Schroder); Anthony Brophy (Brendan Bracken); Edward Hardwicke (Mr. Wood); Tom Hiddleston (Randolph Churchill); Tim Bentinck (Marlborough (as Timothy Bentinck)). Please contact SFC to add other cast members and characters.
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A Timeless Reminder of Courage and Conviction in a Time of Need
Mark Banks (United Kingdom)
Opinion: Recommended
‘The Gathering Storm’ recounts a key period in British and indeed world, history by highlighting the prophetic vision and insight of Winston Churchill. This wisdom provided Churchill with the conviction to take a lone stand against the actions that Hitler's Germany was taking in building up its arsenal and commencing its persecution of the Jews. Albert Finney is truly superb in his role as Churchill, whilst Vanessa Redgrave, Jim Broadbent and a host of others (including Ronnie Barker as Churchill's butler) head up an impressive supporting cast. Filming on location at Chartwell (Churchill's beloved home) adds an essential degree of authenticity to the production; especially in the scene where Winston escorts Clemmie to the balcony to show her just why he bought such an "ugly" house - for the superb view of the English landscape (a view that is every bit as impressive in real life for those that have visited the National Trust house). Also of note is the courageous role of Ralph Wigram, who took considerable risk in divulging statistics vital to Winston's efforts to convince parliament of Hitler's plans. ‘The Gathering storm’ is an admirable production that highlights the roles of some admirable characters without whom the world might be a very different place.
