Christopher Robin story comes to the big screen

This week we are proud to present a little gem by the name of “Goodbye, Christopher Robin,” a behind-the-scenes look at the life of author A.A. Milne and the creation of the ‘Winnie the Pooh’ stories inspired by his son C.R. Milne. The film is distributed by FOX Searchlight, and is rated PG in Alberta. It will play daily at 1:05, 4:05, 7:15 and 9:40 p.m.

“A rare glimpse into the relationship between beloved children’s author A. A. Milne (Domhnall Gleeson) and his son Christopher Robin, whose toys inspired the magical world of Winnie the Pooh. Along with his mother Daphne (Margot Robbie), and his nanny Olive, Christopher Robin and his family are swept up in the international success of the books; the enchanting tales bringing hope and comfort to England after the First World War.

“But with the eyes of the world on Christopher Robin, what will the cost be to the family?” – FOX Searchlight Films.

It is perhaps important to note, that this movie is not completely sunshine and rainbows. It encompasses the idea of “in the darkness comes the light,” to help shine a degree of optimism on the main characters who have dealt with internal conflicts and the pains of world war.

While certainly not a tragedy, I can’t say that this is totally a children’s movie where they will be riveted with excitement.

What I can say is that this is a solid film with good performances and is well written and directed.

It does a great job in blending the mental trauma the father has been living with since his First World War experience, and Christopher Robin’s own traumatic childhood.

From witnessing his parent’s difficult relationship to the deep unhappiness of having his life turned upside down when his fathers’ book, ‘Winnie the Pooh’, becomes an enormous and unexpected worldwide hit — Christopher Robin certainly has his plate full. Of special note, Will Tilston, who plays Christopher Robin at eight years old, puts in an exceptional performance that makes you feel for the character.

The only person who understands and shares his anguish is his nanny, Olive (Kelly MacDonald). Olive too notices how unhappy Christopher Robin becomes but her pleas fall on deaf ears. In real life, C.R. never actually forgave his father for exploiting him (perhaps inadvertently) to sell books.

Instead, he learned to accept what had happened, and lived with it until he passed away.

The opportunity to be entertained and educated presents itself again with this true story that I hope you will find time to enjoy

See you at the movie theatre!