Arts & Entertainment
Feel-good ‘Philomena’
Strong Dench performance anchors gay-themed dramedy
Judi Dench and Steve Coogan in ‘Philomena.’ (Photo courtesy the Karpel Group)
With its winning combination of comedy, moral uplift and righteous indignation, and the surprisingly effective pairing of Dame Judi Dench and Steve Coogan, “Philomena” is an excellent addition to your holiday festivities.
The film is based on the true story of Philomena Lee (Dench), an unwed mother in Ireland who was forced to give her son up for adoption and to work in a convent laundry to atone for her sins and to reimburse the nuns for their obstetrical care. (The outrageous treatment of women like Philomena is explored in the award-winning 2002 documentary “The Magdalena Sisters.”)
With the help of former journalist and disgraced politician Martin Sixsmith (Coogan), she decides to track down her son. After being stonewalled by the nuns at the convent in Roscrea where Philomena was confined, the unlikely duo travel to Washington to follow up some promising leads.
Sixsmith discovers that Michael was adopted by wealthy American parents and ended up as a closeted advisor to President Ronald Reagan. Philomena is devastated to learn that her son died of AIDS, but the unlikely duo decide to track down Michael’s friends and family to find out more about the young man. Their road trip is both sad and funny, bringing together Philomena’s amusing observations of American life (she can’t wait to watch “Big Momma’s House” on the hotel TV) and the moving memories of Michael’s sister (who has been adopted from the same convent), female friend (and beard) and widower.
The screenplay by Coogan and Jeff Pope (based on Sixsmith’s memoir) deftly weaves together Philomena’s sexual indiscretion with her son’s repressive politics and closeted life, her unshaken faith in the Catholic Church against Sixsmith’s world-weary cynicism and atheism, and her belief in forgiveness versus the unyielding and unchanging judgments of the nuns. It leavens these serious themes with some delicious comic moments — Sixsmith’s interactions with his editor and former colleagues, Philomena’s delights at the perks of traveling on an expense account, and especially Philomena regaling the exasperated Sixsmith with the convoluted plot of one of her beloved romance novels.
But despite its many strengths, the screenplay does not fully manage to make the real-life story believable as a free-standing movie. For example, although we learn that Philomena has married and had children and moved to London, we never find out any details about her adult life. Likewise, we never learn in any detail about the scandal that has derailed Sixsmith’s high-flying career. These details could have amplified the powerful themes of redemption, betrayal and secrecy in powerful ways.
More seriously, though, the actions of the supporting characters are unmotivated. Michael’s widower, for example, goes to great lengths to avoid Martin and Philomena, but we never know why, and Michael himself remains a closeted but pleasant cipher.
Despite these flaws, the center of this thoroughly enjoyable movie is the stellar performance of Dame Judi Dench. She creates a richly multi-faceted character with great sensitivity and restraint. Her performance is ably echoed by the talented Sophie Kennedy Clark as the young Philomena in well-written flashback sequences. Both actresses bring to vivid life Philomena’s sensual delight in the fling that resulted in her pregnancy and the psychic and physical horrors of her cruel treatment by the avaricious nuns, as well the deep belief in the possibilities of human nature that brings about the powerful acts of forgiveness that cap the movie.
Dench is also well-supported by Coogan, who is best known for his comic turns in such movie as “Hamlet 2,” but shines in the more dramatic role of the disgraced politician Martin Sixsmith. As both writer and director, Coogan avoids the sentimental clichés that could have bogged the movie down and fully embraces the less savory aspects of Sixsmith’s character to make him a more effective foil to Philomena.
Both funny and inspirational, “Philomena” is satisfying holiday-season cinematic fare. It’s playing at Landmark E Street, Bethesda Row Cinemas and other area theaters.
President Joe Biden, first lady Jill Biden and activist Jeanne White-Ginder spoke at a commemoration of World AIDS Day at the White House on Sunday, Dec. 1. Panels of the AIDS Memorial Quilt were displayed on the South Lawn for the first time in U.S. history.
(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)
In need of a little cheer? Fortunately, there’s a fix. The DMV boasts a wealth of holiday-themed theater, music, and dance guaranteed to lift spirits and warm hearts. Here’s a sliver of what’s out there.
Arena Stage invites audiences “to step back into the holiday spirit with the joyful return of ‘Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show’ (Dec. 13-22) where the rich tradition of African-American stepping blends with the magic of the season.” DJ Nutcracker and his Arctic friends promise to amplify the festive atmosphere. Arenastage.org
Looking for a new way to experience a Christmas favorite? With the Kennedy Center’s “Elf in Concert: Film with Live Orchestra” (through Dec. 1), you can relive the endearing comedy on a giant screen as every note of John Debney’s wonderful score is played live by the National Symphony Orchestra.
Another Kennedy Center holiday treat is “Finn” (through Dec. 22). From Chris Nee, the out creator of TV’s “Doc McStuffins” and “Vampirina,” “Finn” is filled with vibrant sea creatures and catchy tunes. Hilarious and heartening, this world premiere musical chronicles the coming-of-age journey of a young shark following his dreams. Kennedy-center.org
For those in search of yuletide camaraderie and keyboards, there’s the National Cathedral Christmas Day Organ Recital (Dec. 25), a tradition featuring festive music performed (at the Cathedral) by Cathedral organist Thomas Sheehan, and organ scholar Ariana Corbin. Tickets not required. Livestream available. Nationalcathedral.org
At Baltimore Center Stage, ArtsCentric’s production of “Black Nativity” (Nov. 30-December 22) uses a fusion of blues, soul, jazz, spirituals, dance, and the powerful words of gay poet Langston Hughes, to tell the Christmas story through a wide-ranging African-American lens. Centerstage.org
For one night only, the Music Center at Strathmore in North Bethesda presents “A Swingin’ Little Christmas!” (Dec. 4), a nostalgic, Christmas kitsch cabaret featuring out TV star Jane Lynch (“Glee,” “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”), alongside Kate Flannery (“The Office”), Tim Davis (“Glee’s” vocal arranger), and The Tony Guerrero Quintet.
The following night, Dave Koz and Friends celebrate the 27th anniversary edition of the longest running jazz-based Christmas tour at Strathmore on Dec. 5. Koz, a longtime out musician (primarily sax), has released eight holiday albums, including his most recent, “Christmas Ballads.” Strathmore.org
Round House Theatre presents the world premiere of “A Hannukah Carol” (through Dec. 29). The family-friendly musical comedy tells the story of millennial influencer Chava Kanipshin who in pursuit of more followers, shuns family, friends, and holiday traditions. But on the first night of Hanukkah, Chava is visited by the ghost of deceased social media star Mimi Marley and other spirits who warn her to change her ways — or live to regret it. Roundhousetheatre.org.
Historic Ford’s Theatre again presents “A Christmas Carol” (through Dec. 31), a popular Washington tradition for decades. Conceived by Michael Baron, this dynamically staged take on the Dickens’ classic features Craig Wallace as the miserly Scrooge who after a night of ghostly visits, rediscovers Christmas joy. In case you haven’t seen it, do. Fords.org
At Olney Theatre, award-winning out actor Michael Russotto is stepping into the shoes of Paul Morella to star in this year’s edition of Morella’s celebrated solo adaptation of “A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas” (Dec. 29). Russotto portrays more than 50 characters, from the miserly Scrooge to the haunting spirits, to the entire Cratchit family, including, of course, Tiny Tim. Olneytheatre.org
The adage that music can transport you to another time with just a couple of notes proves true at the Folger Library where Folger Consort, the estimable early music ensemble-in-residence, marvelously upholds a glorious Washington holiday tradition with “A Mass for Christmas Eve: Baroque Music for the Season” (Dec. 6-15). Folger.edu
In Falls Church, Creative Cauldron presents “Madeline’s Christmas” (Dec. 6-22), a charming show based on the classic book by author and illustrator Ludwig Bemelmans. It’s Christmas Eve and taking care of 11 flu infected little girls and Miss Clavel isn’t easy, but when Madeline finds help from a magical rug merchant, all that’s miserable is brushed away, and the girls embark on an unforgettable Christmas journey. Matt Conner directs. Creativecauldron.org
The Washington Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” at the glittering, gilded Warner Theatre (through Dec. 30). Featuring Tchaikovsky’s instantly familiar music and splendid choreography by Septime Weber, this Georgetown circa 1882-set production features historical figures ranging from George Washington to King George III, along with the usual suspects like children, rats, fairies, and a mysterious godfather. Washingtonballet.org
The Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington is back with its annual holiday extravaganza “The Holiday Show” (Dec. 4, 14, and 15) at Lincoln Theatre. This year’s uplifting lineup includes eclectic songs with exciting rhythms and beautiful harmonies, and features the high-kicking, bedazzled 17th Street Dance as well as small ensembles and the GenOUT Youth Chorus! Songs include “See Amid the Winter’s Snow,” “Feliz Navidad,” “Love is Christmas,” and “Silent Night.” Gmcw.org
Capital Pride/World Pride will host Rainbow Masquerade at Hook Hall, a New Year’s Eve party featuring drag shows, silk aerial acts, private lounges and the venue’s Hot Tub Cabana. According to Brandon Bayton, Capital Pride executive producer, “Step into the Fabric of Freedom and toast World Pride 2025 in style—where every moment sparkles, every performance dazzles and every toast makes a difference. It’s going to be an amazing night!”
The party is Tuesday, Dec. 31, 10 p.m.-2 a.m. at Hook Hall, 3400 Georgia Ave., N.W. Proceeds benefit Capital Pride D.C. and tickets are available on Eventbrite.
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