Generally straightforward biopic of events in the family of the author Rudyard Kipling in the period 1914-1915, when his son John was killed in WWI. The tensions in the family are well portrayed and I though Kim Cattrall did well in the difficult role of the mother, torn in loyalties. Carey Mulligan is given less opportunity to shine as John's brother, with some rather obvious lines. David Haig, whose play was the basis of the film, plays Kipling well, showing his gradual realisation as to the consequences of his gung-ho attitude. Daniel Radcliffe puts in a thoughtful performance as John showing different sides of his character and growth after he joins the army. The war scenes are effectively done although there is perhaps not enough to show the background to the Battle of Loos, in which John died. The part of the film devoted to the family's efforts to find out what had happened to him is perhaps the best.
There is an historical error near the start of the film; Kipling is shown speaking at a public meeting on the day war was declared, 4 August 1914 and behind him is the famous Kitchener recruiting image; but this was only conceived in the following month - although Kitchener was Secretary of State for War, having been appointed the previous day.
Review of My Boy Jack
