Miss Pettigrew Lives For A Day (review)

DIRECTOR: Bharat Nalluri
STARRING: Frances McDormand, Amy Adams
RATING: PG (PG-13 US)
RUNNING TIME: 91 minutes
GENRE: Romance/Drama

Based on Winifred Watson's 1938 novel of the same name, Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day is about Guinevere Pettigrew (Frances McDormand), a middle-aged London governess who finds herself unfairly dismissed from her job. Her attempt to gain new employment catapults her into the glamorous world and dizzying social whirl of an American actress and singer, Delysia Lafosse (Amy Adams).

The overarching theme of the film is choices. Why we make certain choices over others, what kind of consequences we prioritise stemming from these decisions. Ultimately, Miss Pettigrew acts as a mentor, bringing her lower class experience into the upper class world where there is arguably a very different mentality. This film is also underlined by the impending Second World War which adds a matter of urgency to the theme of decision making.

It took a while for me to accept Amy Adams as bubbly socialite Delysia, but like with all her roles she eventually won me over. Frances McDormand as Miss Pettigrew was fabulous. She had just a wonderful way of embodying her character and actually most of the charming comedic moments of the film. There were good performances from all the supporting cast too, notably Shirley Henderson as questionable friend and fashion designer Edythe, and Lee Pace (who I'll admit to having a slight crush on) as pianist Michael, one of three men involved in Delysia's life.

The music in this film was absolutely wonderful. The soundtrack, written by Paul Englishby, was perfectly fitted to the era of the film, lots of jazzy piano that really put you in the realm of the upper class party goers. Music is also used as a wonderful plot device as Delysia's character is a singer to Michael's pianist and there was a lovely duet toward the end of the film which tied their story together nicely. Paul Englishby actually won an ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) award for his music on this film.

The action all takes place in one day but what a day it is. Filled with romance, humour, wonderful costuming and sets and a lovely script, Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day is a gorgeous and very enjoyable film.

My Rating

Until next time.