There’s a British actor, with over 170 acting credits to his name, two Oscars, three Golden Globes, a BAFTA, and a Madness song name after him – his name is Michael Caine.

And despite now being ninety, he’s still going strong, starring in this film, based on a true story, about an elderly gentleman who takes a trip that takes everyone by surprise.

Finding themselves residents of a care home in the southeast of England are couple Bernie (Caine) and Rene (Glenda Jackson). Bernie could have remained in their own home longer, but didn’t want to be apart from his wife, so they live together.

Bernie told the people that run the home that he was keen to take part in 70th anniversary D-Day commemorations, that were taking place in France, but he was told that unfortunately there wasn’t a space for him to go.

Although deflated by the news, Bernie didn’t let it put him off from going, as he hatches his own plan to make his way to the commemorations – on his own. So early one morning he sneaks out of the home, and makes his way to Dover, to take the ferry to France. Little does he know however, that his absence is not only noticed by the staff of the home, but ends up making national news.

Not many actors would take on a main role in their nineties, but it’s just what you would expect from British screen legend Caine. It’s a sweet and sensitive portrayal of an ex-soldier, still haunted by nightmares of the landing, who believes he has one last duty remaining to fulfil.

He is of course supported by another British icon, Glenda Jackson, who sadly passed away not long after finishing filming. She’s incredible as Rene, the love of Bernie’s life, who is in a more frail state then he is. There had been a span of 47 years since Jackson and Caine last shared screen time together, in the 1975 film The Romantic Englishman, and the pair effortlessly create a loving relationship one last time.

Even Caine has since decided to call it a day, professionally speaking, and have this be his last role. If that is indeed the case, it has to be said that the film is a fitting finale for both stars, bowing out on a high, for what has to be the perfect bookend to both their impressive acting legacies.

It is a film then, full of heart, warm and tender, focusing on an unlikely hero, a little like Caine himself in many ways. And the fact that it’s based on a real story, just makes it that little bit more loveable.

It’s about the casualties of war, young and old, which are pretty much all those who participate, and the scars that are carried by all those involved.

Wonderfully shot by Oliver Parker, it manages to be thought-provoking, without ever being over sentimental, and in doing so, gives its two stars the perfect send off.