PHILOMENA (2013)

**2014 OSCAR NOMINEE**
Pushed out of his position with Britain's Labour Party over a scandal, former journalist Martin Sixsmith (Steve Coogan) - jaded, cynical, and proud of it - finds his road back to journalism potentially well-paved by the human interest story of Philomena Lee (Judi Dench), an elderly Irish woman forced to give up the son she gave birth to fifty years ago.  Sent to live in a convent as a pregnant teen, Philomena saw her son adopted out by the nuns when he was two, her memories and a single photograph of Anthony her only resources now to finding him.  Martin, with an editor interested in Philomena's tale, helps dig for the truth ... but as secrets come to light and the trail leads to Washington, D.C., Sixsmith's impatience turns to compassion as he discovers the "human" side to his human interest story - and injustices done, fifty years ago, that need bringing to light.  A funny, sweet, also powerful true story, with outstanding work by Coogan (who also co-wrote the script) and an always Oscar-worthy Dame Judi. (rated PG-13)  *****

PHILOMENA trailer