Shadowlands (1993 Richard Attenborough)

William Nicholson (with involvement from the director, I would guess) has done a good job of opening out his play so it doesn't feel theatrical. Battles of words and thoughts good, but don't overwhelm story. Anthony Hopkins is of course superb, Debra Winger fine (though getting typecast as terminal patient!), Edward Hardwicke also really good as the brother. Joseph Mazzello is the boy and James Frain the independent student.

Crusty colleagues include John Wood, Peter Howell, Julian Fellowes, Tim McMullan.

Production designer Stuart Craig and photographer Roger Pratt went on to work together on Harry Potter films. Loved the former's attic set and the latter's filming of clouds creating shadows over fields. Lesley Walker collaborates with Terry Gilliam, and also edited Mona Lisa, Cry Freedom and Shirley Valentine.

I was wondering if it was going on a bit...but no, it needs to build to that resounding emotional climax.

Won BAFTA for Best British film with Nicholson, Dickie and the two leads also nominated.