Touching tale of old school grit

Fantastic swansong for Michael Caine (who insists this is his final film) and Glenda Jackson (who died three months before the film was released). The true story of British World War II Royal Navy veteran Bernard Jordan, who in 2014 left his nursing home early one morning (without telling staff) and made his own way over to the D-Day commemorations in France.

The two leads have never been better, whilst John Standing gives excellent support as Arthur, a fellow veteran who Bernie teams up with. Although there is plenty of pathos in Bernie (Caine) and his wife Rene (Jackson) coming to terms with the approaching ends of their lives, there are some heartwarming scenes and even the occasional touch of humour. Director Oliver Parker (perhaps best known for comedy - St Trinian's, Johnny English, Dad's Army) does a fine job with this touching story. 8/10