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Florence Nightingale is a 2008 biographical drama film depicting the life and work of British nurse Florence Nightingale. The film is directed by Norman Stone and stars Laura Fraser as the titular character and Michael Pennington as Sidney Herbert, the British politician and close friend of Florence. The film primarily focuses on Florence's groundbreaking work during the Crimean War, where she earned the nickname 'The Lady with the Lamp' for tirelessly tending to wounded soldiers at night. We see her struggle against the bureaucratic and patriarchal conventions of the time, as she fights for proper medical care and hygiene in the hospitals. The film also explores her relationships with Sidney Herbert and her family, as well as her own personal struggles with illness and mental health.

Laura Fraser delivers an incredible performance as Florence, capturing both her conviction and vulnerability. The film paints Florence as a complex and driven woman, fueled by compassion but also by a desire for personal fulfillment and recognition. Michael Pennington is also excellent as Sidney Herbert, providing a grounded and sympathetic presence as her ally in the war effort.

The film's production design and cinematography are also noteworthy, transporting the viewer back to 19th century England and the brutal conditions of the war. The hospital scenes are especially harrowing, showing the filth and overcrowding that Florence and her team had to contend with. The film also makes effective use of flashbacks and dream sequences, allowing us to glimpse into Florence's troubled past and the trauma that may have influenced her career choice.

One of the strengths of the film is the way it portrays Florence's impact beyond the war. We see her continued efforts to improve medical care and her advocacy for public health reforms in the years following her return to England. The film also touches on her role in nursing education, as she established the Nightingale Training School at St. Thomas' Hospital in London.

Where the film falls short is in its pacing, as there are moments where the story drags or feels unfocused. Some of the supporting characters are also underdeveloped, such as Florence's family members and fellow nurses. Additionally, the film's historical accuracy has been called into question, as certain events and characters are altered or omitted from the narrative.

Overall, Florence Nightingale is a compelling portrait of an iconic figure in nursing and medical history. While it may not be entirely accurate or satisfying for those looking for a complete biographical account, it succeeds in humanizing Florence and showcasing the impact of her work in a difficult and changing world.

Florence Nightingale is a 2008 drama with a runtime of 59 minutes.