Brenda Blethyn’s powerful must-see British drama has an ending you won’t forget

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It’s been over ten years since Brenda Blethyn last appeared in a movie, but fans of her work can find solace in the fact that the conclusion of the long-running TV show “Vera” paved the way for “Dragonfly.

Blethyn wasn’t originally planned for Dragonfly, but she stepped in last year when someone else had to back out. Despite just finishing Vera and not wanting to jump immediately into another project, she agreed to join after reading the script, and it’s clear why.

The gripping and impactful drama, “Dragonfly,” was both written and directed by Paul Andrew Williams (known for films like “Bull” and “Murdered by My Boyfriend”), and it delves into the lives of individuals society often overlooks, culminating in an unforgettable conclusion.

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In the gaming world, I’d say it like this: “Man, the brilliance of ‘Brenda Blethyn’ and ‘Andrea Riseborough’ really took center stage in that film we’re talking about. Their acts were so on point, they even bagged the joint Best Performance award at Tribeca Film Festival earlier this year – a well-deserved victory if you ask me!

In simpler terms, the story revolves around two characters, Elsie (Blethyn) and Colleen (Riseborough). Initially strangers, they develop a friendship due to an unfortunate incident where Colleen notices that Elsie is being neglected by her caregivers. While they aren’t intentionally cruel, they seem to only provide the absolute minimum care required, and after being confronted by Elsie, they even fail to remember her name, treating her more like a faceless obligation rather than a person.

It seems that Colleen recognizes a fellow outsider in Elsie, as both have been largely unknown by society due to their upbringing within the care system at an early age. In response, Colleen offers to assume responsibility for Elsie’s caregivers and assist her on a daily basis. However, John, Elsie’s son, harbors doubts about Colleen’s intentions, yet he doesn’t take the initiative to visit his mother.

The two stars skillfully transform stereotypical characters into authentic, deeply human ones. Elsie, played exceptionally by Blethyn, exhibits resilient spirit despite physical vulnerability, and Riseborough effectively peels back Colleen’s tough exterior to reveal her hidden emotional pain.

Riseborough often gives Colleen an intriguing quality, and Williams’ insightful script provokes us to question our own hidden biases. Colleen proposes using Elsie’s card for easier shopping, mentioning she needs her PIN as well, just in case. This leaves you questioning if it’s sincere or a scam.

John’s visit from Elsie’s son turns out to be crucial. In a noteworthy supporting role by one of Britain’s trusted actors, Jason Watkins portrays the epitome of passive-aggressiveness as he shares tea with Elsie and Colleen. Instead of any genuine interest in seeing his mother, John seems to be scrutinizing Colleen.

The aftermath of this emotionally charged scene transforms “Dragonfly” from a drama into something else entirely, as its concluding part evolves into a suspenseful psychological thriller. One could even propose that it’s a form of domestic horror, given the effective shocking moment, but regardless of the genre you select, it culminates in an intense, captivating finish.

As a gamer diving into this emotional rollercoaster, I must admit that the sudden change in tone could be a bit jarring at times. However, the outstanding performances of the cast really bring everything together, creating a profound impact that leaves me breathless. The climactic scene is particularly poignant, serving as a heart-wrenching finale to the deep themes Williams masterfully weaves throughout the film.

Here’s hoping that we won’t have to wait another ten years for Brenda Blethyn to deliver another incredible performance in a film as remarkable as “Dragonfly”.

Tonight marks the UK debut of “Dragonfly” at the Edinburgh International Film Festival, with additional showings scheduled for the 18th and 19th of August.

A UK release date has yet to be confirmed.

The latest print edition from Digital Spy is out now! Purchase the Oasis – Live in ’25’ issue at your local newsstands or online, currently available for only £8.99.

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2025-08-16 09:51