Films So Good

I was eagerly anticipating the release of the new short film by Tom Berkeley and Ross White. Having also watched their debut movie Roy (2021), I added the new film to my watchlist long before it was even nominated for an Oscar award.

Plot

In rural Northern Ireland, two estranged brothers reunite following their mother’s untimely death. Turlogh has established a life in London, while Lorcan, who has Down syndrome, had been living with their mother who provided care for him. Turlogh intends to send his brother to his aunt’s care permanently and continue his life in London, but a revelation from a priest will shake them. How this event will affect their relationship?

“An Irish Goodbye” explores themes of loneliness and companionship. James Martin and Seamus O’Hara give strong performances, and the overall atmosphere of the movie is well-suited to the story. The film successfully blends humor and drama, similar to the style of the directors’ previous work on “Roy.” However, the movie could have made a stronger reference to Turlogh’s life in London for a more cohesive plot. Additionally, some of the jokes felt out of place within the film’s overall tone.”

Perhaps my expectations were set too high after seeing “Roy,” which may have led me to notice more negatives in “An Irish Goodbye” than actually existed. Nevertheless, I ultimately found the film worthwhile and was glad I spent 20 minutes watching it. The movie delivers a powerful message, which I even recommended to my colleagues at work the next day.

Movie Rating: 68/100

The photo is from a scene of theTV series “An Irish Goodbye” (2022)

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