Edith Evans’s third Academy Award nomination was well deserved for this remarkable depiction of "Mrs. Ross." She portrays a woman whose hold on reality seems fragile – often insisting she is a countess or connected to the Order of the Garter – who anticipates receiving a substantial inheritance of £40,000 but currently exists in poverty and relies on charitable assistance. The unexpected arrival of her son, "Charlie" (Ronald Fraser), brings with it a package that she finds some days later. Could her hopes be realized? Despite her flaws, she remains fundamentally good; when she informs the sympathetic National Assistance official, "Conrad" (Gerald Sim), that she no longer requires their support, she encounters a dishonest woman who manipulates her into having a drink and then steals from her, with the thief’s family abandoning her on a damaged street where neighbors find her. Later, her estranged husband, "Archie" (Eric Portman, in an impactful performance), appears at the hospital; he shows little concern for her well-being, takes money from her purse, and becomes involved with some local gangsters. Director Bryan Forbes assembled a strong ensemble cast—many familiar faces—who touch upon themes of poverty, crime, neglect, as well as race and prejudice. Ultimately, however, this is primarily a showcase for an exceptionally talented actress at the peak of her abilities. Her sensitive and expressive interpretation reveals a sense of goodness throughout her declining years; a compassion that persists even though her connection to what’s real is uncertain. The cinematography frequently uses close-ups, allowing her facial expressions to communicate volumes more effectively than any lengthy explanation could. It's certainly worth seeing.

Source on TMDB