Benediction

In 1917, English war poet Siegfried Sassoon’s attempt at a conscientious objection leads him to being committed to a military sanatorium to recover from a more socially-acceptable ‘nervous breakdown’. During this time he meets and mentors fellow poet and soldier Wilfred Owen, and a meaningful, tender relationship develops. In his beautiful, richly detailed film, Terence Davies delves into the significant moments of Sassoon’s life, exploring the poet’s post-war trauma, stifled sexuality and desire for redemption. Threaded with astute humour, Benediction is powered by a captivating performance from Jack Lowden as Sassoon, a haunting Peter Capaldi as an older Sassoon, and a scene-stealing Jeremy Irvine as a deliciously waspish Ivor Novello.

Kimberley Sheehan, Events Programmer

See our preview screening with extended introduction with actor Jack Lowden on Monday 9 May, and our Seniors’ paid matinee: Benediction + intro on Monday 6 June.

Audio Description available at all screenings. The screenings on Sunday 5 June 13:15 Studio, Tuesday 7 June 14:20 Studio and Thursday 9 June 17:40 Studio will be presented with subtitles for the D/deaf and people experiencing hearing loss.