WHEN THE WHALES CAME is a lesser-known but engrossing adaptation of a Michael Morpurgo novel, made with more heart and realism than a dozen WAR HORSEs. It's shot on location in the Scilly Isles and features a WW1 plot involving islanders attempting to survive in the usual harsh conditions. As usual for Morpurgo, when the war arrives lives are affected forever, while a couple of islander kids befriend an old recluse and discover his secret. A fine cast do justice to the material here, with grizzled Paul Scofield as the cranky old-timer, Helen Mirren, Barbara Ewing and David Threlfall as the impoverished parents, and even the likes of Jeremy Kemp and David Suchet in more minor roles. The story is slow but atmospheric, keeping you guessing throughout, and there are many magical moments.
Review of When the Whales Came
