Timothy Spall pays tribute to Joe Anders as he delves into Helen Mirren reunion in Netflix drama Goodbye June

A synopsis of the story, which takes place just before Christmas, reads: "When an unexpected turn in their mother’s health thrusts four adult siblings and their exasperating father into chaos, as they navigate messy family dynamics in the face of potential loss.

"But their quick-witted mother, June, orchestrates her decline on her own terms — with biting humour, blunt honesty, and a lot of love."

Helen Mirren stars as the titular character, while Mr Spall plays her husband, Bernie. Ms Mirren and Mr Spall have worked together before, having both starred in the 1996 film Hamlet.

The Harry Potter actor was bowled over by Mr Anders's writing, stating: "The beauty of the script is the characters all have a journey of self-discovery.

"It's cathartic. Joe is a God-given gift. He understands that truth is a mixture of tragic and comic.

"It reminds me of some of the films about family from the ’70s and ’80s such as On Golden Pond and Robert Altman films."

A Netflix description of the plot described Mr Spall's character as having shared a long and happy marriage with June, but while his love for her is extremely deep, he finds it impossible to express his feelings around loss.

This leads Bernie to escape grief by being in denial, which comes to the surface through inappropriate jokes and drinking beer in his wife's hospital room.

Ms Winslet stated: "Tim gives a beautifully subtle performance, carrying his own pain but using it comedically to mask his torment."

According to Mr Spall, Bernie is suffering privately, just as his children are.

He reflected: "Everyone is dealing with the impending death in their different ways.

"It's a loving family but there are two tensions. They are all there for June, and as a result, the gatherings around her bed bring out the positive in the family."

On working with Ms Winset again, Mr Spall added: "Kate has not changed over the years.

"She has an intelligence and charm and is a consummate pro who created a lovely atmosphere on set."

As the leading lady, Ms Mirren agreed to consider the material when she was first approached by Ms Winslet, but laid down two firm conditions beforehand.

The acclaimed actress made clear she would not portray any character suffering from dementia.

Her second stipulation was equally definitive: she refused to take on roles depicting someone who was dying.

Despite these firmly held principles, the screenplay's exceptional quality ultimately persuaded Ms Mirren to set aside her own restrictions.