Goodbye Christopher Robin (2017) Review: A Tender Portrait of a Literary Legacy
Goodbye Christopher Robin, directed by Simon Curtis and released in 2017, is a biographical drama that explores the life of A.A. Milne and his son, Christopher Robin Milne, whose adventures inspired the beloved Winnie the Pooh stories. The film stars Domhnall Gleeson as A.A. Milne, Margot Robbie as his wife Daphne, and young Will Tilston as Christopher Robin. The film delves into the personal and emotional impacts of the world-famous stories on Milne’s family and the real-life Christopher Robin.
Plot Summary: The Story Behind the Stories
Goodbye Christopher Robin focuses on the years following World War I when A.A. Milne (Domhnall Gleeson), a celebrated playwright, finds himself disillusioned by his wartime experiences and seeks solace in the countryside. His son, Christopher Robin (Will Tilston), becomes the inspiration for Milne’s children’s books, including the now-iconic Winnie the Pooh series.
The film explores the relationship between Milne and his son, portraying the joy and challenges of their interactions. Daphne Milne (Margot Robbie) is depicted as a loving but complex figure, whose own ambitions and desires shape the family’s experiences.
As the popularity of the Winnie the Pooh stories grows, the Milne family faces both external pressures from the media and personal strains as they grapple with the impact of the stories on their lives. The film examines how the success of the books affects their family dynamic and the emotional toll it takes on Christopher Robin.
The narrative also touches on the broader context of the post-war period, exploring themes of recovery, family life, and the personal cost of fame.
Performance and Characterization: A Subtle and Emotional Portrayal
Domhnall Gleeson delivers a nuanced performance as A.A. Milne, capturing both the creative spirit and the emotional complexities of the character. Gleeson portrays Milne’s struggle with his wartime trauma and his desire to connect with his son through his writing. His performance adds depth to the character, highlighting the internal conflicts and personal sacrifices involved.
Margot Robbie’s portrayal of Daphne Milne is characterized by a blend of elegance and complexity. Robbie captures Daphne’s ambition and emotional turmoil, adding a layer of richness to the film’s depiction of the Milne family. Her performance provides insight into the family’s dynamics and the pressures they face.
Young Will Tilston, as Christopher Robin, delivers a heartfelt and engaging performance. Tilston’s portrayal of Christopher Robin captures the innocence and curiosity of a child caught in the whirlwind of his father’s literary success. His performance adds an emotional core to the film, emphasizing the personal impact of the stories on his life.
The supporting cast includes Kelly Macdonald as Olive, a friend of the Milne family, and Alex Lawther as a young Christopher Robin during the film’s later stages. Their performances contribute to the film’s exploration of the broader social and personal context.
Direction and Cinematography: A Gentle and Reflective Approach
Simon Curtis’s direction of Goodbye Christopher Robin is characterized by its gentle and reflective approach. Curtis focuses on the emotional and personal aspects of the story, creating a film that is both intimate and evocative. The direction emphasizes the relationship between Milne and his family, providing a poignant exploration of their lives and experiences.
The cinematography, by Ben Smithard, enhances the film’s reflective tone with its picturesque and atmospheric visuals. The use of natural light and pastoral settings creates a sense of warmth and nostalgia, capturing the beauty of the English countryside and the emotional landscape of the story. The film’s visual style complements its narrative, adding to the overall impact of the story.
The film’s pacing is deliberate and contemplative, allowing for an in-depth exploration of the characters and their relationships. The combination of direction and cinematography creates a contemplative and engaging experience, drawing viewers into the world of the Milne family.
Themes and Legacy: Fame, Family, and the Impact of Literature
Goodbye Christopher Robin explores themes of fame, family, and the impact of literature on personal lives. The film provides a poignant look at how the success of the Winnie the Pooh stories affects the Milne family, highlighting the challenges and sacrifices involved in the creation of such beloved works.
The film’s exploration of the personal and emotional aspects of Milne’s life offers a deeper understanding of the man behind the stories. It also examines the impact of fame on family dynamics and the emotional cost of literary success.
The film’s legacy is marked by its respectful and intimate portrayal of A.A. Milne and his family. Goodbye Christopher Robin provides a thoughtful and emotional perspective on the creation of one of literature’s most enduring characters and the personal stories behind the beloved tales.
Where to Watch Goodbye Christopher Robin Online
For those interested in watching Goodbye Christopher Robin, the film is available on various streaming platforms and rental services:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: Goodbye Christopher Robin can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video, available as part of a subscription or for rental/purchase.
- Hulu: The film may also be available on Hulu, depending on regional licensing and availability.
Rental/Purchase Streaming Services
- Apple iTunes: The film is available for rent or purchase on Apple iTunes, providing viewers with the option to watch on Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies: Google Play Movies offers Goodbye Christopher Robin for rental or purchase, making it easy to stream on various devices.
- Vudu: Vudu provides options to rent or buy the film, known for its high-quality streaming and extensive film catalog.
- YouTube Movies: The film is also available on YouTube Movies for rental or purchase, allowing for easy streaming through the YouTube platform.
Final Thoughts: A Tender Exploration of Literary Legacy
Goodbye Christopher Robin is a tender and intimate portrayal of A.A. Milne’s life and the creation of the Winnie the Pooh stories. With its strong performances, reflective direction, and evocative cinematography, the film offers a poignant look at the personal and emotional aspects of literary fame.
The film’s exploration of family dynamics, fame, and the impact of literature adds depth to its narrative, making it a compelling and emotionally resonant experience. For fans of Winnie the Pooh and those interested in the personal stories behind beloved literary characters, Goodbye Christopher Robin provides a heartfelt and insightful cinematic journey.
