Venus

What’s it about?
Jodie Whitaker and Peter O’Toole steal the show in this Britflik about the sometimes uncomfortably close relationship that a fading actor develops with the young niece of his best friend Ian (Leslie Phillips).

Highs n lows
Whitaker is perfect as the naïve, self-centred and headstrong teen, who is slowly charmed by O’Toole’s interest in her and kindness. Her character matures naturally as their relationship goes from a quid pro quo to genuine affection which sees her finally putting someone else before herself and learning to deal with the consequences of her actions.

O’Toole and Phillips play off each other brilliantly as two old codgers who refuse to let age beat them – sucking the last out of life in the same way as the pills they swallow like sweets, swearing for England and getting one last dance out of life before checking out time.

Is it any good?
4 out of 5 – engaging tragi-comic look at growing up and aging. Word to the wise, the film contains mild sexual scenes which some might find uncomfortable.