The Last September

The Last September is a drama film set in Ireland during the early 20th century. It follows the story of a wealthy Anglo-Irish family living on their estate in County Cork in the summer of 1920, just before the beginning of the Irish War of Independence. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Elizabeth Bowen.

The story is seen through the eyes of Lois Farquar (Keeley Hawes), a young woman who has been raised by the Mores, the family who owns the estate. Lois is in love with Lieutenant Gerald Colthurst (David Tennant), who has just arrived to stay with the family. However, the family is distracted by the arrival of two English guests, Sir Richard Naylor (Michael Gambon) and his wife Lady Myra (Maggie Smith), who are visiting the estate for the hunting season.

As the guests settle in, tensions between the Anglo-Irish and the local Irish people reach boiling point, with uprisings and violence breaking out. The family becomes increasingly isolated as their relationships and loyalties are tested. Sir Richard, an influential diplomat, sees the situation from a political perspective, while his wife is more concerned with the events on the estate.

The Last September explores themes of class, politics, and identity during a turbulent time in Irish history. The film portrays the Anglo-Irish as out of touch with the realities of the country they are living in and the local Irish population as resentful of their presence.

The film is notable for its beautiful cinematography, which captures the stunning Irish countryside and the opulence of the family's estate. The performances by the cast are also impressive, with Michael Gambon and Maggie Smith standing out as the Naylor couple.

Overall, The Last September is a poignant and thought-provoking film that explores the complexities of Irish history and identity. It is a must-see for anyone interested in Irish history, and for fans of period dramas.