Let Me Go

Let Me Go is a 2017 British drama film directed and written by Polly Steele. The film, set in Austria and England, explores the impact of secrets and lies on a family across three generations.

The film tells the story of Helga (Juliet Stevenson), a mother who abandoned her family when her daughter, Beth (Jodhi May), was only three years old. Fifty-five years have passed since that day, and Helga is now living in England with her second husband, George (Stanley Weber). One day, Beth receives a letter inviting her to visit Helga in Austria, where she is now living in a retirement home.

Beth is hesitant to make the trip, but her daughter, Emily (Lucy Boynton), convinces her to go. Once they arrive, they are greeted by Helga and George, who seem warm and loving. However, it becomes clear that Helga has ulterior motives for bringing Beth and Emily to Austria.

Through a series of flashbacks, we learn about Helga's past and the reason why she left her family. We also see how her absence has affected Beth and her relationship with her own daughter.

As the film progresses, we see the family members unraveling secrets and lies, which have been kept hidden for over five decades. The tensions between them escalate, leading to a series of shocking revelations.

The film deals with heavy subject matters, such as the lifelong impact of trauma, familial dysfunction, and the devastating nature of secrets. There is a palpable sense of sorrow throughout the movie, as we see the characters struggling to come to terms with their past.

The performances in Let Me Go are outstanding. Juliet Stevenson delivers a nuanced performance as Helga, conveying the complexity of a woman haunted by her past. Jodhi May and Lucy Boynton also give excellent performances as Beth and Emily, respectively, portraying their pain and confusion over their family history.

The cinematography is striking, with beautiful shots of both Austria and England. The film's score, composed by Phil Selway of Radiohead, adds another layer to the film's emotional impact.

Overall, Let Me Go is a poignant and heartbreaking film that explores the devastating effects of holding onto secrets and the power of forgiveness. It is a must-watch for those interested in family dramas and emotionally charged stories.