Tolkien 2019

In a poignant twist of fate, Nicholas Hoult as J.R.R. Tolkien and his brother’s world is turned upside down by their mother’s untimely passing, leaving them in the care of the compassionate Father Francis (Colm Meaney). As they navigate the challenges of growing up without parental guidance, Father Francis steps in to provide a sense of security and stability. The brothers’ home life had been filled with warmth and wonder, as their mother regaled them with tales of adventure and mystery by the fireplace’s soft glow. Her passing leaves a gaping hole, but Father Francis’ kindness and generosity help fill the void.

The kindly priest soon finds a new home for the siblings, where they meet Edith Bratt (Lily Collins), the ward of a gentle benefactress. Tolkien is smitten with Edith’s talent on the piano and the two form a deep bond, their friendship blossoming as they explore their shared love of music and imagination.

However, Tolkien’s academic prowess attracts unwanted attention from Robert (Patrick Gibson), a rival classmate who takes great pleasure in tormenting him. When their rivalry boils over into physical confrontations, the headmaster, Robert’s father, decrees that the two spend all their time together for the remainder of the term. Initially, both boys resent this forced companionship, but Tolkien soon wins Robert over with his passion for languages and literature.

As they grow closer, Tolkien finds himself surrounded by a tight-knit group of friends - including Geoffrey (Anthony Boyle) and Christopher (Tom Glynn-Carney) - who share his love of learning. Meanwhile, his friendship with Edith deepens into something more, but Father Francis’ disapproval casts a pall over their budding romance.

Tolkien’s heart is heavy with the weight of his forbidden feelings for Edith, and he confides in her about his conversation with Father Francis. Though she initially agrees to wait until he reaches the age of majority before pursuing their love, Tolkien’s words ultimately drive them apart.

As Tolkien navigates the academic realm of Oxford, his connections with the male camaraderie prove to be both a source of joy and a catalyst for trouble. His association with the university’s boys’ clubs ultimately leads to his scholarship being terminated, leaving him on the precipice of abandoning his studies altogether. The same day brings devastating news: Edith, the object of his affections, has announced her engagement to another, reducing Tolkien to a state of utter despair. It is in this darkest hour that his trusted friend Geoffrey (Geoffrey) provides solace and comfort, offering a listening ear and words of encouragement.

However, it is not long before Tolkien’s fortunes take a turn for the better, as he attracts the attention of Professor Joseph Wright (Derek Jacobi), a renowned philologist. Recognizing the depth of his passion for language, Tolkien enrolls in Wright’s esteemed class, and subsequently benefits from the professor’s sponsorship of his scholarship, allowing him to continue his studies at Oxford.

The outbreak of World War I soon finds Tolkien, along with his friends, answering the call to serve their country in the British Army. Prior to his departure, Edith reappears, and the couple declares their love for each other. As Tolkien fights on the front lines, he is struck by trench fever, leading him to embark on a desperate search for his dear friend Geoffrey, convinced that the latter is calling out to him. Despite his valiant efforts, Tolkien is unable to locate his comrade and eventually collapses from exhaustion.

Weeks later, Tolkien awakens in a hospital, his beloved Edith by his side, only to be met with the crushing news that both Geoffrey and Robert have made the ultimate sacrifice. The weight of their loss serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of war.

Years pass, and Tolkien settles into domestic life with Edith, fathering several children, while also assuming the role of professor at Oxford. As he looks back on his experiences, it is clear that his brushes with mortality have inspired him to channel his creative energies towards the written word. The film concludes with a glimpse of Tolkien’s imagination, as he begins to craft the opening passages of his beloved classic, The Hobbit.

Tolkien’s magnum opus would go on to captivate audiences worldwide when published in 1937, cementing his status as a literary icon. He passed away in 1973, two years after Edith, leaving behind a legacy that continues to enchant and inspire generations of readers.