This is a top-notch, heart-wrenching portrayal of a dysfunctional relationship between a father and son.

It isn't a drama that will only appeal to men, however, as it causes the viewer to reflect upon their own relationship with both parents.

Although the acting is strong and the camera work impressive, it's the kind of movie you could enjoy just as much in the comfort of your own home. There you can snuggle under the doona and dim the lights so no-one can see you cry.

Based on the memoirs of English poet and writer Blake Morrison, And When Did You Last See Your Father? tells the story of Blake's (Colin Firth) troubled relationship with dad Arthur (Jim Broadbent). With Arthur on his deathbed, Blake reviews the relationship with his father over the years, through a series of flashbacks.

We're taken on a journey from Blake's childish adoration for the entertaining father who made things happen, to the belittlement he experienced during his stormy teenage years, that stayed with him into adulthood.

Blake's issues revolved around Arthur's treatment of him and his mother (well-played by Juliet Stevenson) who amazingly stood by his side until his death. One of the most powerful images in the film is after Arthur's death when the camera focuses from behind on her heaving shoulders as she sobs quietly. There's no need for the typical close-up of her tear-stained face, this shot is enough.

Another equally powerful moment comes near the end of the film when Blake stands in the driveway and releases years of bottled-up anguish.

Firth did a great job portraying the hurt, angry and resentful Blake, as did Matthew Beard as teenage Blake.

The standout, however, was Broadbent as the jovial but patronising and often cruel Arthur, who even on his deathbed could not communicate effectively with Blake.

The flashbacks keep the story rolling along, and are a great contrast between childhood memories set in the stunningly beautiful English countryside, to the present day dark, dank, depressing scenes around Arthur on his deathbed.

This is a powerful movie that stays with you on an emotional level long after it's finished.

The only disappointment was the ending. It seemed too rushed, and somehow years of anguish dissolve, yet things are never properly resolved.