"Mrs. Lowry & Son"

 2019 * NR * 1h 31m   This biopic about the British painter LS Lowry is an amazing showcase for two of the finest actors working today--Dame Vanessa Redgrave and Timothy Spall. Ms. Redgrave needs no introduction, but you might not be as familiar with Mr. Spall. He's played in dozens of comedic roles in his younger years, but seems to be a cranky, sourpuss these days. He's recently appeared in Spencer, The Last Bus and Mr. Turner. As soon as you see his face you'll say, "I've seen him in a million things!" 

Mrs. Lowry & Son could have been a stage play, since it's basically two people interacting in one room of a house. LS lives with his mother, who's virtually bedridden. He's a hen-pecked gentleman who's passionate about his paintings, They depict scenes of the local industrial town, and show workers leaving the mill. LS spend his days collecting rent, the early evening tending to his domineering mother, and his nights painting. Redgrave's character is mean, controlling, and domineering, constantly putting down her son and his paintings. It's painful to watch her drain the spirit out of him. 

If you're looking for an action film, give this one a pass. However, if you're in the mood for a masterclass in acting, Mrs. Lowry & Son will reward you in spades. I had never heard of the painter LS Lowry, but when I looked him up, I was delighted to see the rich body of work he left. He's a revered painter who's widely respected and his work is in museums all around toe world.

4 1/2 out of 5 stars

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