BFF26: Last Orders

Retrospective

Based on Graham Swift's 1996 Booker Prize-winning novel and directed by Australian Fred Schepisi (Six Degrees of Separation), in this reflective ensemble drama London butcher Jack Dodds’ (Michael Caine) life story is told through the profound impact he made on his closest friends and family, as his four pub mates come together on a reflective journey to honour his ‘last orders’.

We follow Jack’s best friend from WWII professional gambler Ray ‘Lucky’ Johnson (Bob Hoskins) who is accompanied by former boxer Lenny (David Hemmings), funeral director Vic (Tom Courtney), Jack’s son Vince (Ray Winstone) who struggled with his relationship with his father. While the lads are on their mission, Jack’s wife Amy (Helen Mirren) is on her own emotional journey to visit their daughter June (Laura Morelli), who was largely neglected by Jack.

Interweaving flashbacks of memories with the characters' present-day reflections on how their complex relationships with Jack led them to where they are today, Last Orders is a touching depiction of lifelong friends portrayed by a stellar ensemble.  

WINNER | British Supporting Actress of the Year, London Critics Circle Film Awards 2002
WINNER | Best Acting by Ensemble, National Board of Review, USA 2001
NOMINEE | Golden Seashell Best Film, San Sebastián International Film Festival 2001