Set against the backdrop of a quiet English seaside town in the aftermath of World War II, "Wish You Were Here" tells the compelling story of young Lynda Mansell, played by Emily Lloyd. Growing up in a household marked by the absence of her mother, who died during the war, Lynda's formative years are characterized by a deep sense of longing and rebellion. Her relationship with her widowed father, Eric, portrayed by Tom Bell, is complicated—caught between the constraints of late 1940s societal norms and her burgeoning desire for autonomy. The quaint yet repressive environment of their town becomes a character in its own right, stifling Lynda's spirit while simultaneously fueling her quest for identity and freedom.
From a young age, Lynda's defiance manifests through her language and actions. The film opens a window to her world, showcasing her penchant for swearing and acting out, traits that become more pronounced as she reaches her teenage years. At sixteen, Lynda's rebellion escalates, as she begins to flaunt societal expectations by becoming increasingly exhibitionist. Her search for sexual experiences leads her to challenge the conservative lower-middle class attitudes toward sexuality that dominate her environment. This quest for self-discovery and validation through encounters with various suitors reflects her internal struggle against the constrictive morals imposed by her upbringing.
Ultimately, Lynda's bold choices come with profound consequences. The narrative takes a dramatic turn when she finds herself pregnant by an acquaintance of her father, a twist that forces her to confront the realities of her actions and the implications that follow. The film poignantly explores themes of youth, desire, and the often-painful journey toward maturity, with Lynda emerging as a complex character caught between her youthful impulses and the stark realities of adult life. As she navigates the challenges of her pregnancy, Lynda’s story becomes a powerful commentary on the societal expectations of women, the repercussions of rebellion, and the strength required to forge one's own path in a world rife with expectations.
Main Cast of Wish You Were Here
Emily Lloyd
Lynda Mansell
Emily Lloyd delivered a remarkable performance as Lynda Mansell in the 1987 British drama film "Wish You Were Here," directed by David Leland. Her portrayal of the sixteen-year-old Lynda, set against the backdrop of the late 1950s, captures the raw energy and rebellious spirit of a young woman coming of age in a repressive society. Lloyd's performance is a tour de force of teenage angst and longing, as she navigates the complexities of nascent sexuality, family dysfunction, and the desire for independence. Her ability to convey Lynda's vulnerability and resilience with equal measure earned her widespread critical acclaim, including a win for Best Actress at the Evening Standard British Film Awards. Lloyd's portrayal is both a poignant reflection of the era and a timeless embodiment of adolescent turmoil, making her character's journey unforgettable and deeply relatable.
Tom Bell
Eric
In the poignant Australian drama "Wish You Were Here" (2012), Tom Bell delivers a compelling performance as the conflicted and enigmatic character Eric. As the central figure in a narrative that revolves around the mysterious disappearance of his brother during a trip to Cambodia, Bell's portrayal is a complex tapestry of guilt, grief, and unspoken turmoil. His character navigates the treacherous waters of loss and the subsequent unraveling of secrets while trying to maintain a facade of normalcy upon returning home. Bell's on-screen presence is both haunting and empathetic; he balances the character's internal struggle with an external attempt at stability, effectively conveying the weight of unresolved emotions that Eric carries. The subtlety and depth of his performance are pivotal in anchoring the film's exploration of loyalty, friendship, and the consequences of a single, life-altering decision, making Eric a memorable character in a story that resonates with the raw humanity of its cast.
Jesse Birdsall
Dave
In the 1987 British drama "Wish You Were Here," Jesse Birdsall delivers a compelling performance as Dave, a young man navigating the complexities of love, friendship, and self-discovery against the backdrop of mid-'50s Britain. Birdsall's portrayal of Dave is nuanced and authentic, capturing the character's internal struggles with a keen sensitivity. His interactions with the protagonist, Lynda, played by Emily Lloyd, are particularly poignant, as he oscillates between being a source of comfort and a catalyst for her emotional turmoil. Birdsall's Dave is both charming and conflicted, exuding a vulnerability that endears him to the audience and underscores the film's exploration of adolescent angst. His performance is a standout, as he brings depth to a character caught between the expectations of his social circle and his own burgeoning desires, contributing significantly to the film's tender and bittersweet tone.
Secondary Cast of Wish You Were Here
Trudi Cavanagh
Tap Dancing Lady
Charlotte Ball
Lynda Mansell (aged 11)
Abigail Leland
Margaret (aged 7)
Frederick Hall
Passenger with Brolly
Bob Flag
Mental Patient , Dr Holroyd
William Lawford
Uncle Brian
Marjorie Sudell
Lady with Hurt Knee
Crew of Wish You Were Here
Full backstage crew list →
