A movie that I’m worried might slip under too many radars is “Midwinter Break”, a deeply human adult drama that could sell itself solely on its two stars, Lesley Manville and Ciarán Hinds. And while Manville and Hinds are every bit as wonderful as we expect, there’s so much more to connect with and absorb in Polly Findlay’s extraordinary directorial debut. And it will stick with you well after the credits roll.

“Midwinter Break” has the look of an easygoing relationship drama, and in a way it is. But it doesn’t take long to realize Findlay has much more on her mind. As we tag along with married couple Stella (Manville) and Gerry (Hinds) on a vacation in Amsterdam, we witness the film’s rich themes making their way to the surface. And as they do, Findlay patiently explores them through the couple’s seemingly sweet relationship as well as their individual struggles, which both have kept buried for years.

Based on the 2017 novel of the same name by Bernard MacLaverty. “Midwinter Break” tells a story that’s likely to resonate with anyone who has been married for some time. From one insightful angle, it looks at the long-lasting impact of trauma and how it can set the course for someone’s life. But it also looks at the complexity of relationships. Findlay captures the joy of growing old with someone you love, but also the absolute necessity of communication.

Stella and Gerry have had a long and loving life together. Their early days as an Irish couple was marked by a traumatic incident during The Troubles that could have turned tragic. But they endured, even though the event certainly left some scars. They moved from Belfast to Glasgow where Stella became a teacher and Gerry an architect. They had a son Michael who is now off with his own family, leaving them to enjoy the later years of their lives.

But the more we observe the more we notice details that point to deeper frustrations. For example, Stella is devoutly religious which is quite the contrast to the much more skeptical Gerry who rarely skips a chance to rib her about her faith. Then there is Gerry’s drinking which is much worse than he’s willing to admit. Hoping to give their marriage a jolt, Stella surprises an enthusiastic Gerry with a trip to Amsterdam.

As they enjoy the city’s beautiful sites and unique personality, Stella and Gerry learn they can’t escape their individual internal crisis. It comes to a head once Stella opens up about her feelings, setting up the film’s poignant second half. It’s here that Findlay casts a new light on their relationship which reveals new layers to each character. Manville and Hinds navigate it all with such moving authenticity. There’s not a false note to be found in their performances.

Findlay allows it all to play out deliberately and organically to the point that some might consider it slow-moving. But that’s hardly the case. Every scene, no matter how trivial or mundane it may seem on its own, is revealing in some way and is presented with purpose. Findlay reveals so much detail in the ‘small’ moments. And as more plays out before our eyes, the clearer the portrait of their marriage becomes.

“I’m married. Although I’m not sure how much marriage we have left in us.” Stella’s heartbreaking confession hits like a ton of bricks, much like “Midwinter Break” as a whole. It’s a movie that’s not afraid to deal earnestly and honestly with its themes, while treating an underserved adult audience the kind of offering they rarely get these days. It’s intimate, nuanced, emotionally textured, and remarkably restrained. Altogether, it makes “Midwinter Break” the first must-see drama of 2026.

VERDICT – 4.5 STARS