Thompson rules in compelling grown-up drama

THIS is probably not the sort of role to attract Oscar attention, but it should be. Emma Thompson’s impeccably restrained performance as High Court Judge Fiona Maye is about as good as it gets.

Emma Thompson in The Children Act.

Director: Richard Eyre

Starring: Emma Thompson, Stanley Tucci, Fionn Whitehead

Rating: M

Running time: 105 minutes

Verdict: A riveting performance from Thompson in a drama that asks the hard questions

FOUR STARS