The Wild Rose movie continues to captivate audiences years after its original release, thanks to its heartfelt story, brilliant performances, and timeless soundtrack. First premiering in 2018, this British musical drama starring Jessie Buckley has found a lasting place among fans of character-driven films. As of November 2025, the movie is seeing renewed attention on streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, introducing new audiences to its story of dreams, redemption, and music.
With its mix of emotional storytelling and powerful country-inspired music, Wild Rose remains a film worth revisiting — or discovering for the first time.
Table of Contents
Overview: What Is Wild Rose About?
The Wild Rose movie tells the story of Rose-Lynn Harlan, a young woman from Glasgow, Scotland, who dreams of becoming a country music star. After serving a year in prison, Rose-Lynn returns home to her two young children and her strict but loving mother, Marion, played by Julie Walters.
Torn between her responsibilities as a mother and her burning passion for music, Rose-Lynn struggles to rebuild her life while pursuing her dream of performing in Nashville, Tennessee — the heart of country music.
The film blends humor, heartbreak, and raw authenticity as it explores themes of second chances, family, and ambition.
Cast and Performances
The cast of Wild Rose delivers some of the most memorable performances in recent British cinema.
- Jessie Buckley stars as Rose-Lynn Harlan, in what many consider her breakout role. Her portrayal of a flawed yet determined young woman earned her widespread critical acclaim and several award nominations. Buckley’s charisma, vulnerability, and musical talent elevate every scene, making Rose-Lynn a complex and relatable character.
- Julie Walters, a British screen legend known for roles in Billy Elliot and Harry Potter, plays Rose-Lynn’s mother, Marion. Her performance brings emotional depth to the film, perfectly balancing tough love with quiet compassion.
- Sophie Okonedo plays Susannah, a wealthy woman who becomes Rose-Lynn’s employer and unexpected supporter. Their relationship highlights class differences while showing the universal power of empathy and encouragement.
Together, the trio creates a deeply human story about overcoming obstacles and finding one’s voice.
Direction and Writing
Wild Rose was directed by Tom Harper, known for his work on The Aeronauts and Peaky Blinders. The screenplay, written by Nicole Taylor, is sharp, funny, and emotionally authentic.
Taylor, a Glasgow native, drew inspiration from her own background, blending realism with the dreamlike allure of country music. Her script avoids clichés, presenting Rose-Lynn not as a perfect heroine but as a flawed, passionate woman fighting for redemption.
The collaboration between Harper and Taylor results in a film that feels grounded yet inspiring — a love letter to both music and the people who create it.
Music and Soundtrack: The Heart of Wild Rose
One of the strongest aspects of Wild Rose is its soundtrack, which features a mix of original songs and country classics. Jessie Buckley performed all her own vocals, further cementing her reputation as a multi-talented performer.
Notable tracks include:
- “Country Girl” – The film’s standout anthem, symbolizing Rose-Lynn’s determination to follow her dreams.
- “Born to Run” – A song that captures the spirit of freedom and escape.
- “Glasgow (No Place Like Home)” – The emotional closing song, written by Mary Steenburgen, which beautifully ties together the film’s themes of family and belonging.
The soundtrack has been widely praised for its authenticity and emotional resonance, blending Nashville-inspired sound with British storytelling.
In 2019, “Glasgow (No Place Like Home)” was shortlisted for Best Original Song at several major awards ceremonies, further highlighting the film’s musical success.
Critical Reception and Awards
When it premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2018, Wild Rose received a standing ovation and glowing reviews from critics. It later enjoyed a successful theatrical run in both the U.K. and the U.S., earning over $8 million worldwide — a strong showing for an independent film.
Critics praised Jessie Buckley’s performance in particular, with many calling it one of the year’s best. Major outlets described the film as “uplifting,” “deeply human,” and “a star-making moment” for Buckley.
Awards and nominations include:
- BAFTA Nomination – Best Actress (Jessie Buckley)
- British Independent Film Awards – Best Music and Best Actress
- London Critics’ Circle Film Awards – British/Irish Actress of the Year
Even years later, Wild Rose maintains a 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Where to Watch Wild Rose in 2025
As of 2025, the Wild Rose movie is available to stream on multiple platforms, including:
- Netflix (U.S. and U.K.)
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple TV+ (rental or purchase)
- Google Play Movies
The film also remains popular on physical media, with a Blu-ray edition featuring behind-the-scenes footage, director commentary, and Jessie Buckley’s live studio performances.
Streaming renewals and its growing online fan base have helped the film reach a new generation of viewers who connect with its message of hope and perseverance.
Why Wild Rose Still Resonates in 2025
More than five years after its release, Wild Rose continues to resonate because of its timeless themes and emotional truth.
Rose-Lynn’s story reflects the universal struggle between responsibility and ambition — the push and pull between who we are and who we want to become. Her journey, while specific to Glasgow and country music, mirrors the dreams of anyone chasing passion against the odds.
The film also stands out for its honest portrayal of motherhood, showing that personal dreams don’t have to disappear after setbacks. Instead, Wild Rose celebrates growth, resilience, and the courage to start over.
In a world that often celebrates instant success, Wild Rose reminds viewers that real fulfillment comes from perseverance and self-discovery.
Jessie Buckley’s Career After Wild Rose
Following the success of Wild Rose, Jessie Buckley’s career skyrocketed. She has since starred in several acclaimed films and series, including:
- The Lost Daughter (2021) – Which earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
- Women Talking (2022) – A powerful ensemble drama that won widespread critical praise.
- Fargo Season 5 (2023) – Where she earned an Emmy nomination for her standout performance.
Despite her growing fame, many fans still cite Wild Rose as the role that best showcases her full range — as both an actress and a singer.
Final Thoughts
The Wild Rose movie remains a standout in modern cinema — a story of grit, hope, and music that continues to inspire. With Jessie Buckley’s stunning performance, unforgettable songs, and a message that speaks to dreamers everywhere, it’s no wonder the film is enjoying renewed popularity in 2025.
Whether you’re discovering Wild Rose for the first time or revisiting it years later, the film’s message still hits home: you can always start over, and sometimes, the hardest journey leads you back to yourself.
Have you watched Wild Rose yet? Share your thoughts on Jessie Buckley’s performance and your favorite song from the film in the comments below!
