Films About Ireland on Netflix
“The Siege of Jadotville”, 2016
Director: Richie Smyth
This gripping war drama recounts the true story of the 1961 siege of a 150-strong Irish UN battalion under Commander Patrick Quinlan by 3,000 Congolese troops, led by French and Belgian mercenaries working for mining companies. The film focuses on the bravery and resilience of the Irish soldiers.
Starring: Jamie Dornan, Mark Strong, Mikael Persbrandt, Danny Sapani, Jason O'Mara, Michael McElhatton, Guillaume Canet, Fiona Glascott, Emmanuelle Seigner, Sam Keeley;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: action, war, biography, history;
Duration: 108 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “The Siege of Jadotville” on the website imdb.com
“Brooklyn”, 2015
Director: John Crowley
A romantic historical drama, “Brooklyn” tells the story of a young Irish woman, Eilis Lacey, who emigrates to Brooklyn in the 1950s. Struggling with the initial homesickness, Eilis soon finds love and begins to adjust to her new life, until her past catches up with her, and she must choose between two countries and the lives that exist within them.
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
“The Young Offenders”, 2016
Director: Peter Foott
Inspired by the true story of Ireland's biggest cocaine seizure in 2007, this comedy follows two Cork inner-city teenagers, Conor and Jock, as they embark on a 160 km road trip on stolen bikes, in the hopes of finding an unrecovered bale of cocaine.
Starring: Alex Murphy, Chris Walley, Hilary Rose, Dominic MacHale, P.J. Gallagher, Shane Casey, Pascal Scott, Ciaran Bermingham, Michael Sands, Cora Fenton;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: drama, comedy, crime, adventure;
Age: 18+;
Duration: 83 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “The Young Offenders” on the website imdb.com
“Handsome Devil”, 2016
Director: John Butler
A heartwarming coming-of-age story set in an elite, rugby-obsessed boys' boarding school in Ireland. The film explores themes of friendship, identity, and the importance of finding one’s own voice. Ned, an ostracized student, and Conor, a star athlete, form an unlikely friendship that challenges the status quo within their school.
Starring: Fionn O'Shea, Nicholas Galitzine, Andrew Scott, Moe Dunford, Michael McElhatton, Ruairi O'Connor, Ardal O'Hanlon, Amy Huberman, Dick O'Leary, Hugh O'Conor;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: drama, comedy, sport;
Duration: 95 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7;
More information about the film “Handsome Devil” on the website imdb.com
These films, each unique in its storytelling and perspective, offer glimpses into various facets of Irish life, history, and culture, showcasing the beauty, struggles, and spirit of Ireland and its people. Whether you're in the mood for an uplifting story, a historical drama, or a laugh-out-loud comedy, these selections convey the essence of Ireland in their own distinct ways.
In conclusion, the selection of films about Ireland on Netflix offers a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of the nation's verdant landscapes, tumultuous history, and vibrant culture through a variety of cinematic lenses. From heart-wrenching dramas that delve into Ireland’s troubled past to uproarious comedies that capture the indelible Irish wit, and enchanting tales that bring to life the rich folklore for which Ireland is renowned, these films collectively celebrate the complexity and resilience of the Irish spirit. They not only entertain but also invite viewers around the globe to explore the beauty, pain, humor, and depth of Ireland's heritage and contemporary life. Through masterful storytelling and compelling portrayals, Netflix's curation of Irish-themed films serves as a virtual portal into the Emerald Isle, offering a profound understanding and appreciation of what it means to be Irish in both historical and modern contexts.
