Bill Nighy stars as a Dingle-dwelling grandfather in '500 Miles', a family tearjerker adapted from Mark Lowery's novel 'Charlie and Me'. The film follows teenage Finn (Roman Griffin Davis) and his younger brother Charlie (Dexter Sol Ansell) as they run away from their separating parents in Sheffield to visit their grandad in Ireland.
Plot and Performances
The story switches between time periods. In the present, Finn overhears his parents (Clare Dunne and Michael Socha) arguing about custody and decides to flee with Charlie, who was born prematurely and has long-term health conditions. The brothers embark on a 500-mile trip to Dingle, with Finn shoving Charlie into the luggage compartment on a coach at Manchester. Along the way, they encounter a busker played by Maisie Williams, who performs a twee ukulele rendition of the Proclaimers' 'I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)'.
Emotional Core and Criticisms
The film revolves around a past tragedy that grandad John blames himself for, leading to a family rift. The twist may shock younger viewers but feels implausible to adults, according to the review. Nighy's performance is noted as subdued, possibly due to his rugged beard. The film is described as sentimental, requiring strong actors to navigate heavy emotional material.
'500 Miles' is in UK cinemas from 26 June.
