Ireland, with its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and complex social and political narratives, serves as an evocative backdrop for many films. Movies set in or about Ireland often explore themes like national identity, family, and resistance, and range from gritty dramas to heartwarming comedies.
Here are some films about Ireland:
“In the Name of the Father”, 1993
Director: Jim Sheridan
A biographical drama by Jim Sheridan about the true story of Gerry Conlon, a man wrongly convicted of an IRA bombing as part of the Guildford Four. The film explores his struggle for justice.
Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Pete Postlethwaite, Emma Thompson, John Lynch, Mark Sheppard, Beatie Edney, Frank Harper, Britta Smith, Corin Redgrave, Gerard McSorley;
Production year: 1993;
Genre: drama, crime, biography;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 133 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
More information about the film “In the Name of the Father” on the website imdb.com
“Once”, 2007
Director: John Carney
A musical romance film set in Dublin, featuring two struggling musicians who write, rehearse and record songs that tell their love story.
Starring: Glen Hansard, Markéta Irglová, Hugh Walsh, Gerard Hendrick, Alaistair Foley, Geoff Minogue, Bill Hodnett, Danuse Ktrestova, Darren Healy, Mal Whyte;
Production year: 2007;
Genre: drama, melodrama, music;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 86 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “Once” on the website imdb.com
“Michael Collins”, 1996
Director: Neil Jordan
A historical biopic directed by Neil Jordan, focusing on Michael Collins, a revolutionary leader who played a key role in the establishment of the Irish Free State.
Starring: Liam Neeson, Aidan Quinn, Stephen Rea, Alan Rickman, Julia Roberts, Ian Hart, Richard Ingram, John Kenny, Ronan McCairbre, Jer O'Leary, Brendan Gleeson, Stuart Graham, Sean McGinley, Gerard McSorley;
Production year: 1996;
Genre: thriller, drama, war, biography;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 133 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “Michael Collins” on the website imdb.com
“The Quiet Man”, 1952
Director: John Ford
Directed by John Ford, this classic film stars John Wayne as an American boxer who returns to the Irish village where he was born, finding love and conflict.
Starring: John Wayne, Maureen O'Hara, Barry Fitzgerald, Ward Bond, Victor McLaglen, Mildred Natwick, Francis Ford, Eileen Crowe, May Craig, Arthur Shields;
Production year: 1952;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
Age: 12+;
Duration: 129 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,7;
More information about the film “The Quiet Man” on the website imdb.com
“Sing Street”, 2015
Director: John Carney
Set in 1980s Dublin, this film follows a teenager who starts a band to impress a girl, exploring themes of family, friendship, and ambition.
Starring: Ferdia Walsh-Peelo, Lucy Boynton, Jack Reynor, Aidan Gillen, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Kelly Thornton, Ben Carolan, Ian Kenny, Percy Chamburuka, Mark McKenna;
Production year: 2015;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy, music;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 106 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,9;
“Brooklyn”, 2015
Director: John Crowley
Directed by John Crowley, based on the novel by Colm Tóibín, the film tells the story of a young Irish immigrant navigating her life in Brooklyn, while dealing with homesickness and falling in love.
Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Emory Cohen, Domhnall Gleeson, Jim Broadbent, Julie Walters, Brid Brennan, Jane Brennan, Fiona Glascott, Jessica Paré, Eileen O'Higgins;
Production year: 2015;
Genre: drama, melodrama;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 117 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
More information about the film “Brooklyn” on the website imdb.com
Each of these films provides differing perspectives on Ireland's culture, struggles, and beauty, making them poignant explorations of the country and its people.
In conclusion, films about Ireland not only entertain but also illuminate the rich tapestry of the nation's history, culture, and landscapes. From poignant dramas that explore the nuances of Irish identity, such as “The Wind That Shakes the Barley”, to the uplifting melodies of “Once,” these cinematic works invite audiences around the globe into the heart of Ireland. Whether delving into the depths of the Troubles or celebrating the indomitable spirit of its people through character-driven tales like “Brooklyn,” each film serves as a testament to the resilience and complexity of Irish life. Together, they form a celluloid mosaic that captures the emerald essence of Ireland, ensuring that the world may come to know and appreciate this enchanting country through the universal language of film.
