We are delighted to announce that the real Philomena Lee, who inspired the Oscar-nominated and award-winning film Philomena, will be joining us for a webchat on Thursday 27 March from 12-1pm.
Falling pregnant as a teenager in Ireland in 1952, Philomena Lee was sent to the convent of Roscrea to be looked after as a 'fallen woman'. When her baby was only a toddler, he was adopted and taken to America without warning. Philomena spent the next fifty years searching for her lost son in vain.
Then she met Martin Sixsmith, a world-weary journalist as cynical as Philomena was trusting. Together they set off for America on a journey that would not only reveal the extraordinary story of Philomena's son, but also the powerful bond that developed between Philomena and Martin – a surprising relationship that was both profoundly moving and very funny.
Based on the best-selling book The Lost Child of Philomena Lee by Martin Sixsmith, this incredible true story was adapted for the screen by star Steve Coogan and Jeff Pope. Loved by audiences and critics alike, Pathé Productions invite you to experience Philomena this Mother's Day, released on Blu-ray and DVD on 24 March 2014. We have 30 copies up for grabs. If you'd like to watch the film and join the webchat, apply for a free copy here.
Join Philomena Lee on Thursday 27 March at midday or post a question to her in advance on this thread.