This dramatic yarn is loosely based on Rudyard Kipling’s poem “My Boy Jack.†In WWI, Rudyard’s jingoistic enthusiasm pushes his son in to war, only to wind up as so many did – missing in action. The film follows the entrance to the war and the emotional search by his parents. The film is enjoyable as a dramatic period piece with a fine bit of acting by David Haig
David Haig is the star of the movie as the ebullient and dramatic Rudyard Kipling. David’s acting drowns out the work by the others, including a decent showing by Kim Cattrall as Mrs Kipling. Daniel Radcliffe (Jack Kipling) looks similar to how he did in Harry Potter – the bookish and boyish soldier who grows up quickly – but alas not so believably.
.The most touching part of the the movie was the ending itself – where the poem is read. A Kipling masterpiece indeed. The rest of the film was done perhaps a little better than most made for TV films – great period costume and surrounding. The execution on drama was a bit overdone at times, and Jack perhaps wasn’t the most believable choice as soldier boy.