Test your knowledge of Their Finest with our quiz!

Plot Summary


The story unfolds in London during the year 1940, following Catrin Cole, portrayed by Gemma Arterton, who finds herself called for an interview at the Ministry of Information. There, she is tasked with crafting scripts for short informational films. Meanwhile, her husband, Ellis Cole, played by Jack Huston, is a war artist unable to showcase his work due to a leg injury sustained in the Spanish Civil War. Initially supportive of Catrin’s newfound career, Ellis’s attitude shifts when he realizes that she is now the primary breadwinner. Feeling threatened, he devises a plan to send her back to Wales under the guise of protecting her from the dangers of the London Blitz.

Their relationship reaches a boiling point following a confrontation with Ambrose Hilliard, interpreted by Bill Nighy, who requests alterations to Catrin’s script. Rather than dwelling on the conflict, Catrin is redirected by her superiors to delve into a story about twin sisters Lily and Rose, who had set out to sail their father’s boat for the Dunkirk evacuation. Upon meeting the sisters, Catrin discovers that they encountered mechanical issues shortly after departure, leading to their being towed back to port by a tugboat involved in the evacuation, thus mistakenly reported as having made it to Dunkirk.

Faced with the risk of losing her job and returning to Wales, Catrin resorts to deception, convincing her superiors to produce the film under the title The Nancy Starling. Alongside Tom Buckley played by Sam Claflin and Raymond Parfitt portrayed by Paul Ritter, they craft a narrative that continues to evolve. Even when their ruse unravels, the decision is made to proceed with the project as a fictional film rather than a documentary.

Hilliard receives an offer to play the role of a drunken uncle named “Uncle Frank,” initially rejecting it out of pride. However, following the death of his agent, Sammy played by Eddie Marsan](/actor/eddie-marsan), during an air raid, Hilliard eventually accepts the role due to the urging of Sammy’s sister, Sophie, enacted by Helen McCrory. As location shooting begins, the script demands rapid modifications, particularly after the Secretary of War, portrayed by Jeremy Irons, insists on the inclusion of an American character to enhance allure for U.S. audiences. The character is to be played by Carl Lundbeck, embodied by Jake Lacy, a charming Norwegian-American pilot filling the role despite facing challenges in the ‘talkies’ genre. Thankfully, Catrin’s creative guidance and strategic editing help ensure the film’s revival, including persuading Hilliard to tutor Lundbeck in acting.

During filming, an evolving camaraderie blooms between Catrin and Buckley, filled with both lighthearted banter and deeper affection. However, the delays lead her to miss the grand opening of Ellis’s war art exhibition. In a moment of revelation, she confides in a crew member that she is actually Ellis’s long-term lover, having assumed his name for appearance’s sake. When Catrin returns home to London, she uncovers Ellis in an intimate encounter with a younger woman named Natalia Ryumina, leading her to end their relationship and return to Devon.

After discovering the truth about her relationship, Buckley proposes to Catrin, but she initially declines, resulting in a heated argument. Yet, later in London during interior filming, she has a change of heart, and the two share a passionate kiss, just before a mishap occurs. While heading to consult on Hilliard’s character, Buckley tragically is killed by a falling lighting rig while looking back at Catrin.

With the ultimate Americanized ending added, Catrin suggests that one of the twins, Rose, take responsibility for fixing the boat’s propeller, fulfilling an idea she had championed from the onset. Overcome with grief and shock, Catrin withdraws from film but is motivated to return by Hilliard, who seeks her assistance for engaging roles now that he has come to terms with moving away from matinee idol parts. Attending a screening of the film, Catrin sees that a clip of her and Buckley has been incorporated into the closing scene. After conversing with moved audience members, she resolves to sit down and pen her next film.

Timeline


Catrin's Interview

In 1940 London, Catrin Cole attends an interview at the Ministry of Information. This pivotal moment marks the beginning of her career in scriptwriting for short informational films, a role that will soon put her in the crosshairs of personal and professional conflicts.

1940 London

Ellis's Struggles

Catrin's husband, Ellis Cole, grapples with his own difficulties as a war artist sidelined by a leg injury from the Spanish Civil War. Initially proud of Catrin's achievements, his burgeoning insecurity grows as she becomes the primary breadwinner in their relationship.

Conflict with Ambrose

Amidst her work, Catrin faces tension with actor Ambrose Hilliard, who requires changes to her script. Their confrontation highlights the challenges Catrin faces in asserting her creative voice in a male-dominated industry.

The Sisters' Story

Catrin is directed to craft a film about twin sisters, Lily and Rose, who set out to assist in the Dunkirk evacuation. They encounter mechanical problems and are returned to port, creating a misunderstanding about their contribution to the war effort.

Dunkirk

Deception for Work

In a bid to save her job and continue her project, Catrin resorts to deception by pitching her film under the title *The Nancy Starling*. This decision leads her, along with Tom Buckley and Raymond Parfitt, to navigate the blurry lines between fact and fiction.

Hilliard's Role Acceptance

Actor Ambrose Hilliard initially dismisses an offer to play the role of Uncle Frank due to his pride. However, after experiencing a personal loss during an air raid, he reconsiders and accepts the role, showcasing his character's evolution.

American Character Addition

During the film's production, the Secretary of War pressures the team to include an American character to enhance the film's appeal. The charming Norwegian-American pilot Carl Lundbeck is cast, leading to comedic challenges and creative adjustments.

Growing Affection

As filming progresses, Catrin and Tom Buckley develop a deeper bond, filled with playful banter and emotional connection. Their relationship evolves against the backdrop of the film's production, bringing both joy and complications to Catrin's life.

Catrin's Revelation

While filming, Catrin confides in a crew member about her tumultuous relationship with Ellis and the sacrifices she has made. This moment of vulnerability highlights her struggle between personal commitments and professional aspirations.

Ellis's Betrayal

Upon returning to London, Catrin discovers Ellis in an intimate moment with a younger woman named Natalia. This painful revelation forces Catrin to confront the reality of her relationship and ultimately leads her to end things with Ellis.

Buckley's Proposal

After witnessing Catrin's heartache, Buckley proposes to her, but she initially declines due to her unresolved feelings. This moment encapsulates their complicated romantic tension as both navigate their desires amidst the pressures of war.

Tragic Loss

In a moment of tragedy, Buckley is killed by a falling lighting rig while turning back to Catrin. His death profoundly impacts her, pushing her to reevaluate her life choices and the significance of their brief romance.

Film's Conclusion

Catrin suggests a new direction for the film's ending, incorporating themes of responsibility and resolution. Her creative influence shines through as she helps shape the final narrative, turning grief into a collaborative triumph.

Catrin's Return

Motivated by Ambrose Hilliard's encouragement, Catrin returns to the film industry, embracing her potential as a storyteller. She attends a screening, where she witnesses the impact of her work on the audience, fueling her passion for filmmaking.

New Beginnings

After the screening, Catrin resolves to write her next film, inspired by her experiences and the journey she has undergone. This marks a new chapter in her career and personal growth as she channels her pain into creativity.

Characters


Catrin Cole

Catrin Cole is a driven and talented woman who emerges as the primary breadwinner in her household. Her journey through the wartime film industry displays her strength and creativity, as she navigates personal and professional challenges. Catrin's character development illustrates her growth from a supportive wife to an empowered artist.

👩‍🎨 Filmmaker ❤️ Determined 🎭 Creative

Ellis Cole

Ellis Cole is a war artist grappling with feelings of inadequacy as his wife becomes the main provider. His initial support turns to jealousy, creating tension in their marriage. Ellis's struggles with his identity and pride showcase the human side of wartime challenges.

🎨 Artist 😔 Insecure ⚔️ War Veteran

Ambrose Hilliard

Ambrose Hilliard is a seasoned actor whose pride and value in classical roles are challenged as he adapts to new demands in filmmaking. Hilliard's journey reflects the broader transition within the film industry during the war, culminating in personal growth and acceptance of change.

🎭 Actor 💼 Evolving 🤔 Reflective

Tom Buckley

Tom Buckley is a charming and ambitious actor who develops a deep connection with Catrin. His playful banter and underlying affection for her reveal a complex character whose journey is intertwined with love, loss, and the demands of the film industry.

🌟 Charming ❤️ Romantic 🎬 Actor

Setting


Time period

1940

The year 1940 is marked by the height of World War II, with Europe engulfed in conflict. The British wartime spirit is palpable, as filmmakers respond to the need for uplifting narratives amidst the bombings. This time period significantly influences the characters' lives and their creative endeavors.

Location

London

London during 1940 is a city on the brink of wartime turmoil. Known for its rich history and cultural significance, it serves as a backdrop for the film industry during WWII, producing stories to boost morale. The London Blitz adds an air of danger and urgency, shaping the narratives crafted by filmmakers at the Ministry of Information.

🏙️ Capital 🎥 Film Industry

Themes


🎬

Film Production

The theme of film production is central as Catrin navigates the complexities of creating a narrative during the war. The film explores the challenges filmmakers faced, along with the camaraderie and collaboration necessary to bring stories to life, even under pressure. Catrin's journey illustrates the power of storytelling in times of crisis.

💔

Love and Betrayal

The personal relationships in the film highlight themes of love and betrayal. Catrin's evolving affections create tension with her husband Ellis, and the arrival of Tom Buckley complicates her emotional landscape. This theme examines the fragility of relationships under external pressures and personal insecurities.

🛠️

Resilience

Resilience is showcased through Catrin's determination to succeed in her career despite the obstacles she faces. Her ability to adapt the script and overcome personal calamities reveals a strong, resourceful character. The film displays how individuals can rise above adversity, especially in tumultuous times.

© 2024 What's After the Movie?. All rights reserved.