Exeter College alumna directs debut feature film Midwinter Break

Acclaimed theatre director Polly Findlay, an alumna of Exeter College (2001, English Language and Literature) and Honorary Fellow, has directed her first feature film, Midwinter Break, adapted from Bernard MacLaverty’s novel of the same name. 

Findlay has established herself as a prominent theatre director, working with organisations including the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre. Her productions include Beginning, which transferred from the National Theatre to the West End, and a widely praised staging of The Merchant of Venice. 

Midwinter Break follows married couple Gerry and Stella, as they travel to Amsterdam on a winter holiday. Over the course of their trip, the pair reflect on their relationship, exploring themes of faith, memory, and the complexities of a long marriage. The film stars Oscar nominees Lesley Manville and Ciarán Hinds. The novel, published in 2017, was shortlisted for the Costa Novel Award and received critical acclaim for its portrayal of later life and marriage. Midwinter Break marks Findlay’s debut as a feature film director, bringing MacLaverty’s work to the screen. The story unfolds over the course of the couple’s trip, with much of the narrative focused on their conversations and shared experiences. 

Findlay studied English Language and Literature at Exeter College and was later elected an Honorary Fellow in recognition of her contribution to the arts. 

Exeter College warmly congratulates Polly on this significant achievement and looks forward to the continued success of Midwinter Break.