Reviewed by Kate Rodger
An NZ/UK co-production, Dean Spanley is set in Edwardian England, with a kiwi director and star, an Aussie thrown in for good measure, and alongside British acting royalty and scenery.
Sam Neill is Dean Spanley, a member of the local clergy prone to the odd tipple, and to chasing cats up trees.
Jeremy Northam is Young Fisk, who forms a friendship with the Dean, intrigued by his rather fanciful trips down memory lane.
Fisk Senior, played by O'Toole, isn't quite so sure of Dean Spanley, and so our story gently unfolds.
O'Toole and Sam Neill command the screen, and for very different very watchable reasons, and Bryan Brown is perfectly cast as the engaging and laconic colonial Wrather.
My advice here is the very same as Young Fisk's in this film, keep your mind open and willing, and allow the story to take hold.
When it does, this curious little tale sneaks up from behind and delivers a suckerpunch to the heart.
A touching story of filial love and a delight to watch, 4 stars.
:: Director: Toa Fraser
:: Rating: G
source: newshub archive
