Set at the end of the 1960s, as Swaziland is about to receive independence from United Kingdom, the film follows the young Ralph Compton, at 12, through his parents' traumatic separation, till he's 14.
Nicholas Hoult
as Ralph Compton - 14 years
Gabriel Byrne
as Harry Compton
Emily Watson
as Ruby Compton
Julie Walters
as Gwen Traherne
Miranda Richardson
as Lauren Compton
Celia Imrie
as Lady Riva Hardwick
Zac Fox
as Ralph Compton - 11 years
Julian Wadham
as Charles Bingham
Fenella Woolgar
as June Broughton
John Matshikiza
as Dr. Zim Mzimba
Sid Mitchell
as Vernon
John Carlisle
as Sir Giffard Hardwick