To Olivia is a section of Roald Dahl’s life in England after his daughter dies.
The film primarily deals with Roald’s domestic life and the depression and grief that follows the tragedy.
It’s always difficult to make a true story about someone’s life interesting. For the most part, being a writer is a hard slog of putting in the hours attempting to write something meaningful and entertaining. It’s not as glamorous as most people think it is.
I wasn’t familiar with his first wife, Patricia Neal’s work as an actress. As a result, I felt didn’t have the background to understand her character. She was apparently more famous than Roald when they met.
Roald had his faults and wasn’t the hero father and husband.
The scene with the priest was the most memorable and funny. And I’d be disappointed too if there were no animals in heaven!
The acting is good. The scenery is great. But it’s just a lacklustre story arc and overall, it’s sad and slow in parts.
To Olivia is a film for Roald Dahl fans, history buffs and aspiring writers.
Showing in Australia with a release date of 19 May 2022.
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