Watch The Bookshop

The Bookshop is a 2017 British drama film directed by Isabel Coixet and based on the novel of the same name by Penelope Fitzgerald. The movie stars Emily Mortimer as Florence Green, a widow who decides to open a bookshop in the small coastal town of Hardborough in 1959. Florence is an avid reader and believes that a bookshop would bring cultural and intellectual stimulation to the people of the town. However, her plan is met with resistance from some of the locals, particularly Violet Gamart (played by Patricia Clarkson), who wants to turn the building into an arts center.

Despite opposition, Florence perseveres and opens the bookshop with the help of Mr. Brundish (played by Bill Nighy), a reclusive and wealthy book lover who becomes her greatest supporter. However, Florence's troubles are far from over. She faces challenges from the town's conservative-minded residents who do not appreciate her liberal views and her decision to sell Nabokov's Lolita in the shop.

As the story progresses, tensions escalate between Florence and her opponents, culminating in a dramatic finale that leaves the audience on the edge of their seats. The performances of the lead actors, particularly Mortimer and Nighy, are powerful and nuanced, pulling the viewers into the story and making them empathize with the characters.

The Bookshop is a beautifully shot film with stunning visuals depicting the idyllic coastal town and its surroundings. The cinematography captures the subtle beauty of the English countryside, transporting the audience to a world that is both familiar and enchanting.

But beneath the charming exterior of the film lies an undercurrent of tension and conflict. The story explores themes such as censorship, small-town politics, and the struggle of independent businesses to survive in an era of great change. The film also examines the power of books and literature to connect people and transcend social and cultural barriers.

Overall, The Bookshop is a thought-provoking and emotionally engaging film that showcases the power of storytelling and the human spirit. The movie is a must-see for anyone who loves books and appreciates the art of filmmaking.

The Bookshop is a 2018 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 52 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5 and a MetaScore of 62.