Midwinter Break Parent Guide

At Christmas, Stella (Lesley Manville) gives her husband Gerry (Ciaran Hinds) a surprise gift: a trip to Amsterdam for a midwinter holiday. Gerry is excited to see the sites, but Stella has a deeper purpose: she’s concerned that they have become “exiles from each other” and hopes the trip will help them reconnect. More personally, she’s seeking a way to align her priorities with her own life.

Even in the winter, Amsterdam is lovely (and justifies its place atop my European wish list). Stella and Gerry find an Irish pub, admire Amsterdam’s peerless museums, try Dutch drinks, and take a walk on the wild side as they stroll through the city’s notorious red-light district. Despite the enjoyable activities, undercurrents pull at the tranquil surface of their marriage. Past trauma and an old vow just might strain this relationship beyond its breaking point.

It’s difficult to discuss the film in detail without ruining the viewing experience. This isn’t a movie with a plot twist; rather it’s the slow reveal of the characters’ past and its unfinished business with the present that provides the narrative’s tension (such as it is: there isn’t much). In fact, “slow” is the best single word descriptor for this movie. The action unfolds slowly, the plot languidly unfolds across the screen, characters move with deliberation. I enjoy character dramas, but even I found this film a bit too ponderous.

That said, it’s a masterclass in acting. I have long been an admirer of Lesley Manville and she does not disappoint in Midwinter Break. Her portrayal of Stella rings true: a devout, conscientious woman, tormented by an act of terror that nearly killed her. Ciaran Hinds is, as ever, rock solid, a bear of a man trying to drown his emotions in a bottle.

Alcohol is the primary source of negative content in the movie. Not only is Gerry’s problem drinking a key plot point, but there are frequent scenes of both main characters drinking in bars and restaurants, and Gerry also drinks on the sly. Other negative content is minor: some kissing, embracing in bed, brief flashbacks to an act of violence, and two profanities. This is definitely an easy PG-13 film.

I will admit to some disappointment with Midwinter Break. Perhaps my hopes were unrealistically inflated by the trailer and the prospect of watching the leads on screen. I certainly don’t dislike the film: the plot simply feels a bit too thin to support 90 minutes of slow action and a well-contained story. 

About author

Kirsten Hawkes

Kirsten Hawkes has a BA in Political Science and English and has worked in international development and medical education and marketing. Kirsten enjoys reading, watching movies, and debating politics with her husband and sometimes unwilling children.