Drama,Crime,TV Movie
United Kingdom,United States of America
The film Longford is a British biographical drama, directed by Tom Hooper and written by Peter Morgan. It first aired on Channel 4 in 2006 and later released in theaters. The movie tells the story of Lord Frank Pakenham, the 7th Earl of Longford, a devout Catholic and social reformer, who dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of the disadvantaged and marginalized.
The movie focuses on Lord Longford's controversial friendship and campaign for the release of Moors Murderer, Myra Hindley. Hindley had been sentenced to life imprisonment for her role in the brutal murder of five children between 1963 and 1965, along with her boyfriend, Ian Brady. Lord Longford was convinced that Hindley was a reformed person and deserved a chance at redemption. His public support for Hindley's release caused an outcry among the public and political establishment, leading to Lord Longford being labeled as naive and misguided.
The film portrays Lord Longford as a complex and compassionate man, committed to his beliefs and principles. Despite the intense opposition and personal attacks he faced, he remained steadfast in his pursuit of justice and reform. The movie also explores Lord Longford's relationship with his wife, Lady Elizabeth, whom he loved deeply, and his strained relationship with his children, who did not always share his values and beliefs.
The cast of Longford includes Jim Broadbent as Lord Longford, Samantha Morton as Myra Hindley, Lindsay Duncan as Lady Elizabeth Longford, and Andy Serkis as Ian Brady. The film was critically acclaimed for its nuanced portrayal of a controversial figure and its exploration of themes such as forgiveness, redemption, and the limits of empathy.
