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 an absolutely key period in British, and indeed world, history; highlighting the prophetic-like vision and insight that Churchill had that provided him with the conviction to take a stand against the actions that Germany was taking. Clearly beyond the scope of this production is the fact that although Churchill enjoyed great war-time success, much of the rest of his political life was marked by many ups and downs and was far from an impressive record. In spite of this Churchill is often blindly elevated to almost messianic status in British politics. He was a great leader and his courage and conviction in this pre-war time of need should be admired, but beyond that his life and his other achievements should be put in perspective for those looking for role models in life.
