Loach’s 2010 drama is a touching portrayal of Britain and Australia’s shocking undiscussed history.

Based on her novel, Empty Cradles, It narrates social worker Humphrey’s (Watson’s) discovery of the secret forced immigration of thousands of poor British children to Australia between 1945-70.

Her subsequent journey to reunite now adult migrants (Weaving and Wenham) with their estranged families beautifully illustrate the vulnerability caused by childhood abuse and neglect.

Loach’s sensitive directing style conveys both the heartbreaking impact of separation on broken families, and the frustrating bureaucracy who refuse to accept blame.

A poignant well-performed story we all need to hear. 

Jo Bradley.