I really should give this movie.9/10, docking a mark for a certain photographic self-indulgence of the Terrence Malick variety. It's debatable as to whether or not the extensvie coverage of the beautiful scenery, lovingly shot by DOP Ben Davis, helps or hinders the film. But, in the end, it is no inconvenience to drink it all in, as the sad story of a failed friendship is played out against the backdrop of an indifferent natural world.
So, it's 10/10 for a masterpiece of writing, superb performances, and -- except for those minor Malickisms, tactful and sensitive direction.
As the Irish Civil War blasts and rages on the mainland, different kinds of struggle take place in the lives of four islanders. The emotional journeys are charted with exceptional compassion and skill by Brendan Gleeson, Colin Farrell, Kerry Kondon and Barry Keoghan. Farrell in particular, in the role of a lifetime, moves believably and poignantly from skin to stone in the course of couple of unforgettable cinematic hours:
The supporting cast boasts several treats, my favourite being the venerable Sheila Flitton, enjoying herself hugely as Mrs McCormick, one of those people we go out of our way to avoid.
So, it's 10/10 for a masterpiece of writing, superb performances, and -- except for those minor Malickisms, tactful and sensitive direction.
As the Irish Civil War blasts and rages on the mainland, different kinds of struggle take place in the lives of four islanders. The emotional journeys are charted with exceptional compassion and skill by Brendan Gleeson, Colin Farrell, Kerry Kondon and Barry Keoghan. Farrell in particular, in the role of a lifetime, moves believably and poignantly from skin to stone in the course of couple of unforgettable cinematic hours:
The supporting cast boasts several treats, my favourite being the venerable Sheila Flitton, enjoying herself hugely as Mrs McCormick, one of those people we go out of our way to avoid.