Opened: December 23, 2009

Directed by: Michael Hoffman

Starring: Helen Mirren, Christopher Plummer, James McAvoy, Paul Giamatti, John Sessions, Patrick Kennedy, Kerry Condon & Anne-Marie Duff

Chronicling the final days of one of the world’s best-known writers, The Last Station is elevated by passionate performances from screen legends Helen Mirren and Christopher Plummer.

Nearing death, Leo Tolstoy (Plummer) is being pressured with how his estate should be handled after he’s gone. His wife Sofya (Mirren) wishes to keep his copyrights within the family, while his editor and disciple Chertkov (Paul Giamatti) wishes them to enter the public domain.

Mirren and Plummer play into the marriage difficulties well. You can tell there is still love between the couple but that their differing ideals have caused a great strain on their relationship.

While the story is true, the script doesn’t fully live up to the greatness of its subject, but it’s an interesting look at a lesser-known story.

Final say: Mirren and Plummer make the film. ★★★★☆