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In Simon Curtis’ newest film, Goodbye Christopher Robin, the world’s best-loved literary character is brought to life. This film captures the writer A.A. Milne’s (Domhnall Gleeson) life after the first World War, who is deeply affected by his harrowing time as a soldier. Milne retreats to the countryside with his wife Daphne (Margot Robbie) and his son Christopher Robin (Will Tilston), nicknamed Billy Moon, in order to find some sort of solace.
Inspired by the English countryside, Milne creates Winnie-the-Pooh, with the help of his son’s imagination. This character brought comfort to the nation so damaged by the war, including the shell-shocked Milne. However this sparkling success brings distressing effects to the Milne family, as we see the young Billy shoved into fame.
One of the most charming elements of this film is the relationship Milne and Billy have. The 100 Acre Wood, which is based on the Ashdown Forest where the family lived in East Sussex, is brought to life by the chemistry this father and son harbour. Their adventures create the world which we are all familiar with and is a driving force of the narrative. The relationship they have also reminds the audience that this story is not an entirely happy one as we see the strain the books have as the boy’s creativity is commercialised.
As a period drama, some of the events that seem to occur seem a little too perfect, a little too romantic. This issue is apparent in the circumstances of the creation of the world of Winnie-the-Pooh which seems to be all too easy and contrived. This artificial perfection can be seen in the character of Daphne, a quintessential woman of the early 20th century adorned in a flapper dress who seems to speak with a slight pinch of her nose.
All in all, this film proves the be a story that can attract those who grew up with the characters and those who are looking for an endearing and lovable story based primarily on a father and son relationship many can relate to. This narrative is wholly entertaining regardless of its entire truth and and will evoke emotion in any viewer.
