Smart, elegant, and deeply moving, “The Children Act” stars two-time Academy Award-winner Emma Thompson in a riveting performance as Fiona Maye, a British High Court judge who, in the midst of a marital crisis, must rule on a life-changing legal case concerning the survival of a teenage boy.
At issue: whether to order a blood transfusion on the boy (Fionn Whitehead, “Dunkirk”), a Jehovah's Witness who, just months short of his eighteenth birthday, is refusing on religious grounds the procedure that would save his life.
Adapted by Ian McEwan from his own novel, and directed by Richard Eyre, “The Children Act” is a deeply affecting portrait of strength, devotion, and love, with the incomparable Emma Thompson giving one of the very best performances of her career.
“Emma Thompson never disappoints, nailing every nuance of a judge who lets the world in at the cost of losing her own judgment. This is acting of the highest order.” – Peter Travers, Rolling Stone
“This drama offers another sterling performance by one of the screen's greatest actresses.” – Michael Ordona, Common Sense Media
“Two-time Oscar winner Emma Thompson delivers one of the most moving performances of her career.” – Stephen Farber, The Hollywood Reporter