Faithfully Adapted from Penelope Fitzgerald’s novel of the same name, The Bookshop is a neat homage to love and literature set in a charmingly traditional post Second World War Britain.

The film follows Florence Green, a widower who moves to a small costal town with the intent of opening a bookstore.  However Florence soon faces adversity in the form of the scheming socialite Mrs. Gamart- who in a bid to flex her own social status intends to transform the bookshop into an art gallery. It is within this old school power struggle of class and social standing that the essence of the film truly shines through bringing an originality to the fairly simple premise.

Throughout the films meandering narrative it often takes the time to revel in its own excessively quaint Britishness. This is the films strength – bringing forth charm where it perhaps lacks in narrative.  Complimenting this British backdrop is the beloved gem that is Bill Nighy. An actor who seems to perfectly balance a mix of dry British wit and seriousness within every role he plays. Once again he excels with his character – Edmund Brundish – a local recluse who possesses a strong hate for the people of the town yet importantly provides support for the bookshop and a friend for Florence throughout. These character moments provided a relationship which was both comical and emotionally touching simultaneously.

The bookshop was a charming little film worth book marking for literary enthusiasts.

The Bookshop is screening at thescreen Stortford on Saturday 11 August at 2pm and 7.30pm and Thursday 16 August at 7.30pm – book tickets now.