Last Orders (film)

Last Orders is a 2001 British-German drama film written and directed by Fred Schepisi. The film is based on the 1996 novel of the same name by Graham Swift.

The story centers around the friends of Jack Dodds, a London butcher, who gather in his local pub, the Coach and Horses, after his death to fulfill his last request: to have his ashes scattered at sea from Margate Pier. The film chronicles their road trip to Margate, during which they reminisce about their lives, friendships, and their relationship with Jack.

The film features an ensemble cast including Michael Caine as Jack Dodds, Bob Hoskins as Ray Johnson, Tom Courtenay as Vic Tucker, David Hemmings as Lenny Tate, and Ray Winstone as Vince Dodds, Jack's son. Helen Mirren plays Jack's widow, Amy Dodds.

Last Orders explores themes of friendship, loss, memory, and the working-class experience in London. It received generally positive reviews, with praise for its performances and character development. The film was nominated for the Golden Bear award at the 51st Berlin International Film Festival.