Review: Compelling story and powerful performances in ‘Railway Man’

Posted on May 23, 2014

World War II has been the subject of countless films, so it’s always interesting when a movie can find a new angle to present. That’s what we get with “The Railway Man,” a phenomenally acted film based on the true story of a man haunted by the horrors of war and the choices he makes when given the chance to find either closure or revenge.

Buttressed by two performances from Academy Award-winner Colin Firth (“The King’s Speech”) and Jeremy Irvine (“War Horse”), the film is thoughtful and compelling while being comfortable enough with its story to step back and let the audience experience the events without interjecting its own perspective and bias.

Some may find the pacing on the slow side, but I felt it fits the story being told, providing a measured build up to the film’s emotional climax.

The film is rated R for disturbing prisoner of war violence.

Subscribe to our e-Edition and read the rest of the story. Already a subscriber? Click here to sign in.