About The Gathering Storm (HBO)

The Gathering Storm is an HBO movie that was released in 2002. It provides a dramatic view into the life of Winston Churchill in the years of political unrest leading up to World War II.

The narrative centers on Churchill's (Albert Finney) personal struggles and tribulations during a period of political exile and his ascendance towards the office of Prime Minister against the backdrop of World War II.

Making / Production

The film, an HBO/BBC co-production, was directed by Richard Loncraine and written by Hugh Whitemore. It was shot in the UK to authentically capture the background and ambiance of this period in history.

Actors

• Albert Finney as Winston Churchill - The role was played with incredible passion and realism, earning Finney accolades for his performance.
• Vanessa Redgrave as Clementine Churchill - Redgrave was praised for her nuanced portrayal of Winston's supportive yet firm wife.
• Jim Broadbent as Desmond Morton - Broadbent played the crucial role of Churchill's trusted aide skillfully and with great finesse.
• Linus Roache as Ralph Wigram - Roache's portrayal of Churchill's informer within the government showcased his ability to play subtle characters effectively.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Albert Finney wore the same hat in the film that Winston Churchill had worn during WWII. The hat was given to him by Churchill's family.
• The writer, Hugh Whitemore had previously written another film about Churchill, 'The Woman He Loved,' which was set around the same period.
• Some scenes were shot in Churchill's real-life home, Chartwell.

Awards

The Gathering Storm received numerous prestigious awards. Albert Finney won the Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie, while the show won for Outstanding Made for Television Movie. The movie also received Golden Globe Awards for Best Miniseries or Television Film and Best Actor for Albert Finney.

Quotes

• "You cannot reason with a tiger when your head is in its mouth." - Winston Churchill
• "I am a man of simple tastes, I am easily satisfied with the best." - Winston Churchill
• "If you're going through hell, keep going." - Winston Churchill

Music, Soundtrack

• The evocative score was composed by Howard Goodall.
• Some famous tunes of the period were incorporated into the score to provide an authentic feel.
• The stirring main theme captured the essence of Churchill and his wartime leadership.