An Angel For May

An Angel for May is a captivating adventure and family drama film that debuted in 2002. Directed by Harley Cokeliss and starring Tom Wilkinson, Charlotte Wakefield and Matthew Beard, this heartwarming cinematic experience explores profound themes of time, love, and bravery, woven into a rich tapestry of historical and magical realism.

The movie unfolds around the character of a young school boy from modern Britain named Tom (Matthew Beard), who leads an unhappy and rather lonely life due to family troubles. Tom stumbles across a derelict farm during his wanderings, and in the process, discovers a portal to the past. The farm, though unwelcoming, possesses a strange aura that pulls Tom deep into its historical mystery. The engaging plot comes to life as Tom is swept back in time to the era of Second World War Britain, where he fortuitously rescues a young shepherd girl named May (Charlotte Wakefield).

Set amidst the dangers of the war, Tom and May’s relationship grows from unfamiliarity to a strong bond of friendship. May, in the company of Tom, experiences a glimmer of hope and happiness which she's missing due to the harsh circumstances of war. Wakefield adroitly portrays May as a vulnerable yet brave child who warms to Tom’s kindness, while Beard excellently presents Tom's transformation from an angst-ridden boy to a decisive and strong individual.

Switching between the periods, An Angel for May presents an intriguing contrast between the harsh realities of World War II and contemporary times. The movie does an excellent job of vividly portraying the societal and physical aftermath of war, the crumbling buildings, and the tense atmosphere, thereby highlighting the comparative comforts of Tom's actual time.

As the complexities of time travel unfurl, Tom seeks the guidance of a kindly archaeologist, Mr. Henshaw, portrayed by renowned actor Tom Wilkinson. Wilkinson's performance brings a calm and assuring presence to the otherwise fast-paced narrative, his character providing the audience with a deeper understanding of the movie’s historical aspect. His insightful interpretations of the time travel phenomenon add an intriguing cerebral element to the film.

One of the charming aspects of An Angel for May is its representation of the innocence and purity of friendship between two children. Their camaraderie, portrayed brilliantly by Beard and Wakefield, transcends the boundaries of time, adding a beautifully poignant emotional fulfilment to the narrative. Interestingly, the movie does not lean heavily into its fantastic elements, but instead, uses them cleverly to underscore the plot's emotional arc.

An Angel for May is a beautiful coming-of-age story that showcases a young boy's transition from a world of hardship and loneliness into a time and place where he becomes a beacon of hope and strength. The film plunges the viewer into the historical backdrop of the Second World War while maintaining a consistent focus on its well-rounded characters and their personal journeys.

The movie excels not only in its storytelling but also in its remarkable depiction of contrasting time periods. Rich in period detail, An Angel for May succeeds in immersing its viewers into the atmospheric scenes of World War II Britain, while effortlessly transitioning back to modern times. The technical aspects, including sound, cinematography, and art direction, are masterfully executed, enhancing the credibility and aesthetic appeal of both the historical and contemporary settings.

An Angel for May delivers an emotionally moving tale that integrates the elements of adventure, history, and fantasy into a harmoniously composed piece of cinema. It's a film that encourages audience of all ages to think about the importance of friendship, the courage in adversity, and the unfathomable conundrums of time travel.

The performances by the cast complement the intricate storyline and emotive themes of the film. Tom Wilkinson, Charlotte Wakefield, and Matthew Beard turn in performances that are both compelling and convincing. Together with a well-executed script and creative direction, their performances result in a film that is both evocative and memorable.

In sum, An Angel for May is an engrossing and thought-provoking movie that seamlessly combines elements of drama, history, and fantasy. It tackles mature themes with a deft touch, presented in a manner that is appropriate for both children and adults. This movie promises a riveting and touching experience that leaves its viewers with an appreciation for time, history, and the enduring strength of human connections.