Benediction

The life of Siegfried Sassoon, a World War I poet and troubled man broken by war, searching for peace and self-acceptance.

"Benediction" is tenderly presented filmmaking; memories are illustrated with dream-like sequences while the poet's work is recited. This was a time when an intimate relationship with a man was an unacceptable choice for another man to make. As a result, the movie carries an almost overwhelming thread of sadness. Artists live decorous but anguished existences amid London society's upper crust, where the veneer of manners is constantly pierced by barbed witticisms. It's a curious way of being and clever writing. Father forgive me.

Limited Release 9th June 2022
Rialto Distribution 137 mins