An Angel for May

An Angel for May is a poignant British time-traveling television film released in 2002, based on the novel penned by Melvin Burgess. The show is directed by Harley Cokeliss and featured an engaging cast of characters portrayed by seasoned actors like Tom Wilkinson, Geraldine James, Julie Cox, among others. Refreshing in its unique approach towards the time-travel genre, An Angel for May brings together elements of drama, mystery, adventure, and emotional exploration – beautifully intertwined throughout the storyline.

The central character of the film is Tom, a modern-day teenager portrayed by Matthew Beard, who is leading an uneventful life in the robust and somewhat hectic urban lifestyle of the twenty-first century. Tom’s life takes an unexpected turn when he finds himself inexplicably transported back in time to a rural English town during the Second World War. Arriving quite suddenly in this distinct time and place, Tom struggles to comprehend the new reality he's confronting.

In the wartime English town, Tom runs into May, a young girl played by Charlotte Wakefield who is experiencing the harsh realities of the war - isolation, uncertainty, fear, and loss. May lives on a farm with her family who are making do with the siege's changes. The effects of war on the small town is masterfully depicted through May's tale and authentically brings forth the struggles of simple folks living amidst the war's shadow. A unique bond is forged between Tom and May, significantly impacting both and transforming their lives in ways neither of them could have anticipated.

The performance from the cast of An Angel for May is praiseworthy. Matthew Beard's portrayal of Tom, a confused, Modern-age teenager experiencing wartime with billions of questions and fears, is exceptional. The performance from Charlotte Wakefield as May, a young girl dealing with wartime solitude and uncertainty, adds a layer of profound innocence and tranquility that complements Beard's character in contrastingly beautiful ways. Tom Wilkinson and Geraldine James also give strong supporting performances, adding depth to the film's narrative with their substantial character roles.

One of the primary themes of the movie is the interaction and comparison of two contrastingly different time periods - World War II and the early 21st Century. The series effectively showcases the stark differences and subtle similarities shared by these two eras through the narratives of Tom and May. The show plays around with the exhilaration, fear, disappointment, and hope associated with the concept of time travel. It further addresses thought-provoking questions about fate, circumstance, and personal pacts that ultimately define our existence.

Additionally, An Angel for May does an impressive job capturing the landscape and ambiance of a World War II-era English town, along with the clothing, living conditions, and the social dynamics of the period, offering an immersive viewing experience. The cinematography of the film is of a highly professional standard with beautifully framed shots that capture the essence and beat of both the eras depicted in the series.

The screenplay of An Angel for May allows for the film's diverse array of themes and emotional tones to create a consistent narrative--a narrative that leaves the viewer engaged and intrigued from start to finish. Despite tackling a complex concept like time travel, the film successfully maintains a story arc that is simple yet heart-touching. Atmospheric and poignant, the score complements the series' tone and emotional resonance, effectively heightening the narrative at critical junctures.

Overall, An Angel for May is a beautifully crafted British film that masterfully blends elements of time-travel, war-time experiences, the innocence of youth, and emotional bonds into a highly engaging, thoughtful, and touching narrative. An underrated gem in the realm of television films, An Angel for May is a must-watch for viewers fascinated with stories that successfully combine history, philosophy, and raw human emotions. A particularly fitting watch for those intrigued by the complexities of time travel and its impact on human relationships.