Tolkien

Plot
The film opens on a scenic English countryside backdrop, a quaint and idyllic setting where the young John Ronald Reuel Tolkien lives with his mother Frances, a pious woman in a devout Catholic household. Despite the tranquil surroundings, Tolkien's life is about to take a significant turn. The early 20th century is a time of great turmoil, and the First World War looms on the horizon. However, for the nine-year-old Tolkien, the most defining aspect of his world is the bond he shares with his mother. Their relationship will soon be tested by the harsh realities of life. In a pivotal scene, Tolkien and his older brother Hilary discover that their father Arthur Tolkien has abandoned them, leaving no provision. Frances is forced to send them to a boarding school in Bloemfontein. The two boys are deeply affected by their father's departure and struggle to cope with the emotional distance that separates them. It is during this time of personal turmoil that Tolkien first discovers the world of literature and becomes enchanted by the stories of Beowulf. This early exposure to the epic poem will have a lasting impact on his life and writing. Tolkien is eventually reunited with his mother and the two form a strong bond, though it is complicated by Frances' impending death due to tuberculosis. In a poignant scene, Tolkien and his mother share a tender moment, and she expresses her love for him and her desire for him to find comfort in his faith. Her death leaves Tolkien heartbroken, but it also serves as a catalyst for his burgeoning interest in literature and the stories he will later weave in his most celebrated works. The film takes a significant turn with the arrival of Neville Crompton, a kind-hearted and intelligent young pupil at Tolkien's school. The two bond over their shared love of literature and their passion for language. They begin to spend most of their free time exploring the world of words, experimenting with languages, and reading extensively on mythology and history. Crompton becomes a vital part of Tolkien's life, supporting him during difficult times and encouraging him to pursue his dream of becoming a writer. The arrival of Christopher Wiseman, Geoffrey Bache Smith, and Robert Gilson marks the beginning of a new era in Tolkien's life. The four schoolmates form a tight-knit circle, each one drawn to the others' diverse interests and strengths. Christopher, an artist, and Robert, a poet, bring unique perspectives to their group, which further enriches their discussions. The bond between the four deepens as they navigate the challenges of adolescence and share their dreams for the future. As they grow older, the bond between the four friends only strengthens. They attend Oxford University, where they hone their literary skills, explore their spirituality, and debate the role of language in shaping our understanding of the world. It is during this period that their shared passion for literature becomes a defining aspect of their lives. They spend countless hours sharing books, discussing mythology, and inventing their own stories. The outbreak of World War I casts a dark shadow over the friends' lives. Christopher decides to join the British Army, despite his frail health. Robert is called up immediately, and Tolkien and his friend follow suit, though Tolkien is initially exempt from service due to his poor eyesight. The war brings the friends face to face with the harsh realities of conflict, which profoundly impact their worldview and their writing. As the war rages on, Christopher is killed at Gallipoli, leaving his friends in a state of profound grief. The loss serves as a catalyst for Tolkien's subsequent work, particularly "The Silmarillion" and "The Lord of the Rings," which grapple with the themes of war, friendship, and the struggle between good and evil. The film concludes with an elderly Tolkien reflecting on the bond he shared with his friends and the war that tore them apart. He recalls the hours they spent in Oxford, discussing their favorite books and inventing their own stories. The scene is a poignant tribute to the power of friendship and the enduring impact it has on our lives. As the camera pans out, the audience is left with a deeper understanding of the man behind the stories, and the bonds that defined him.
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