POSITIVES…
Kenneth Branagh outdid himself here with this lovely film. Kicks off with an explosive opening and just keeps your attention for the rest of the story. From bringing Belfast to life, the personable story, to the characters’ journey, told in a spectacular narrative, and done via a tightly paced 97 minutes that doesn’t waste your time.
There’s a very distinct fragile contrast in tones between the two intersecting storylines of the childhood innocence as seen through the eyes of Buddy, and the very real complications of adult’s lives as shown to us via the perspective of his Pa and Ma. That delicate balance only strengthens the noteworthy themes and lessons of this story, about family, community, social politics, hope, and love.
What a fantastic cast! Jude Hill as Buddy is an incredibly delightful lead character that is easily the main highlight of this film. Caitriona Balfe is simply amazing in the role of Buddy’s Ma, and Jamie Dornan brings a lot of charm and emotions as Pa. Two other standouts that have to be pointed out are the wonderful Ciarán Hinds and Judi Dench as Pop and Granny respectively. Those conversations between Pop and Buddy are just one of my favorite things about this movie.
While there are some deeply serious topics, poignant commentaries, and heartwarming moments that this story covers, it still absolutely does not shy away from just all out entertaining us with enjoyably fun sequences and humorous conversations.
This black & white picture, the brief moments strategically filled with color, how certain shots are framed, to the Van Morrison filled soundtrack, this movie is also a visual and aural experience to be had.
NEGATIVES…
Hope you can understand the Irish accent or have access to subtitles, because that’s the whole movie.
There’s a particular stand-off during the third act that looked way too conveniently staged for me.
Not every plot gets the follow-up or conclusion that you might have been hoping to see.
Needless to say, if you’re not into Black & White movies, then this is probably not for you.
I shouldn’t even find this to be an issue, but Dornan and Balfe stand out way too much as seemingly the only handsome/beautiful couple in Belfast.
LOVED IT enjoyeditlikedititsokayitsmehitsterrible
