A heart-rending film set in Ireland and the US, based on a poignant 2009 book, is now available for viewing on Netflix.

The critically acclaimed film stars Judi Dench and Steve Coogan and has been showered with several international film awards upon its release.

The film, an adaptation of The Lost Child of Philomena Lee, features Dench as the titular character Philomena, an elderly woman who has spent half a century searching for her son.

Coogan portrays Sixsmith, who endeavours to assist her in her quest. The film was a massive success, earning nominations for four BAFTA Awards and three Golden Globe Awards.

After being ousted from his role as a government adviser, London-based journalist Martin Sixsmith is approached by Philomena’s daughter.

She proposes that he write a story about her mother, and Sixsmith becomes engrossed in her tragic tale.

Viewers are introduced to Philomena’s heart-wrenching story, which unfolds in Roscrea, Ireland, during the 1950s.

Coogan co-wrote the screenplay with Jeff Pope, and their work was recognised with the Best Screenplay award at the 70th Venice International Film Festival.

Fans have taken to Google Reviews to express their thoughts, with Ruby Chitre sharing: “This movie made me sob! ! The end is so so beautiful! It’s based on so much cruelty and yet love conquers it in a way!”

Jochen Stossberg added: “It’s wonderful. Deeply moving and very funny. I totally loved this touching movie.

“Judi Dench and Steve Coogan are brilliant together and the screenplay has enough bite to it to keep it feeling relevant.”

Bruce Marshall, in his review of the film, lauded Dench’s performance, stating: “This was an excellent movie with impeccable acting by Judi Dench.

“The story is a true story and it’s just heart-breaking to watch the deceit that was foisted on an innocent woman. Very well worth watching.”

Referencing the original source material, Bonnie Martin called it “heart wrenching but a must-read”.

Philomena is on Netflix