Despite the story being based on a true story and the plot compelling at times, I did find that the story was long and drawn out. I did fast forward the movie in places. If it was shortened I would've given it a higher rating. Overall I was a little disappointed.
Mr Pip reviews
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Very good acting.Didnt realise it was a true story.The violence was a bit over whelming.
The coming of the village ‘idiot’ Mr Watts (a wonderfully nuanced Hugh Laurie) to the role of local teacher on a the blockaded isle of Bougainville is meet with both amusement and – naturally – expectations. By using Charles Dickens' novel, ‘Great Expectations’, Watts manages to enthuse and captivate his students (and many of their parents), especially the impressionable Matilda (played to great effect by Xzannjah). However, as in the novel, as in life. The beauty and peace of the village cannot hold against the turbulent political and military forces that surround and hound it. Matilda finds refuge in her head and grows her own sense of hope and understanding as much around her changes. There is violence here – hence the rating – but it is not overly graphic (although it is deeply upsetting), and the brooding beauty of the scenery foreshadows that all will not resolve how the characters may wish. Upon reflection I probably cannot describe this as an ‘enjoyable’ watch (though it has elements of humour and humanity), but I do thoroughly recommend it.
Great film.