Mr Williams (Bill Nighy) is a diligent but rather dour bureaucrat, working in a council in post-war London. One day, he’s given a devastating medical prognosis: he only has a few months left to live. Stunned by the news, he abruptly abandons his usual routine. Chance encounters with a rebellious writer (Tom Burke) and a youthful colleague (Aimee Lou Wood) help Mr Williams discover a whole new perspective on both his life and work.
Based on classic Japanese film Ikiru – beautifully adapted here by director Oliver Hermanus and writer Kazuo Ishiguro – Living is a poignant, lovingly-told story about finding meaning when faced with one’s own mortality. Bill Nighy is perfectly cast here, offering up one of the finest performances of his entire career.
Festivals & awards:
Sundance Film Festival, 2022
Venice Film Festival, 2022
Audience Award – Virginia Film Festival, 2022
“A gentle, exquisitely sad film” – The Guardian ★★★★★
“The cast is wonderful. And every detail… is just perfect” – The Irish Times ★★★★★
