Paula Hammond - Features EditorEsio Trot is the sort of film that creeps up on you.
On paper, it’s nothing much. A widow, a lonely neighbour, and a pet tortoise. But, once you’re into the meat of it, the whimsy unfolds like s Spring flower.
Judi Dench is, of course, as reliably lovely as ever, but Dustin Hoffman’s performance is a joy to behold. Every smile, every shrug, every wistful sigh, is played with sincerity, nuance, and a life time’s experience in front of the camera. The result is nothing short of delightful. And, while ‘delightful’ is often used as a synonym for films that are sugary-sweet, Esio Trot has all of the heart and none of the saccharine.
Gentle, shy Mr Hoppy (Dustin Hoffman) is retired and lives alone, with only his beautiful balcony garden for company. But Mr Hoppy has a secret. He is hopelessly, passionately in love with the lovely, effervescent Mrs Silver (Judi Dench) who lives downstairs. But unfortunately for Mr Hoppy, Mrs Silver is more interested in her beloved pet tortoise, Alfie. When Mrs Silver confides in him that she wishes Alfie would grow, Mr Hoppy hatches an intricate plan…
Described by Sir Quentin Blake as a “love story set in two rooms”, Roald Dahl’s Esio Trot is a vibrant, funny and uplifting love story that will warm the heart.
Esio Trot is more than tortoise spelt backwards, it’s a film packed with warmth and human connection. And, maybe, in these strange times, the world needs less cynicism and more Esio Trot.
Extras include:
The Making of Esio Trot.
Cast and Crew Interviews.
Deleted Scenes.
