Sussex on Screen: Hope Gap

Annette Bening, Bill Nighy and Josh O’Connor shine in William Nicholson’s intimate portrait of a family crisis.

Grace (Bening) and Edward (Nighy) have been married for decades, but the joy of a visit from their son (O’Connor) gives way to despair for Grace when Edward announces he is leaving her. Loosely based on the break-up of his own parents’ marriage, writer-director Nicholson’s sensitive drama refuses to apportion blame, instead conveying the emotional turmoil that ensues in the wake of a long-term relationship ending. It’s a moving and impressively performed drama, which also captures the beauty of the Dover coastline.