Lenny Abrahamsons nonpartisan observation of the labyrinth of teens with 'the world at feet - head in clouds' fragility, and naïve expectation for success, reflects a generation of (seldom seen outside of caricature) Irish youth during the Celtic Tiger era, whose cotton wool wrappings come unraveled as a consequence of one single act of savage brutality, albeit something brewed and simmering from early in the plot.
The feeling that you are engaged directly with the cast as a silent participant is audible in the atmosphere of the auditorium. The subtle threat of the 'something sinister' draws you to observe, with diligent attention, as the characters are pieced carefully around you and their reactions become internalized, while you yourself will be increasingly disturbed by the 'what if that were me?' that stares out of the screen at you.
These young actors give themselves unreservedly to the film in a way that draws you into the fringes of their circle and their world. They are giving you their time, enabled by tender direction, and you are captivated by their exuberance.
Worth watching too for the portrayal of some of Dublins leafy suburbs in a most charming light, and for the poignancy with which the musical score draws the emotions out of the flatness of the screen and plants them into your heart.
A masterful piece of collective art forms from the first frame to the abrupt credit roll which leaves the Audience silent and unsettled. One for parents . and then to pay for your kids to go and see. Certain to illicit some significant family and peer group discussion. Well worth your time.
The feeling that you are engaged directly with the cast as a silent participant is audible in the atmosphere of the auditorium. The subtle threat of the 'something sinister' draws you to observe, with diligent attention, as the characters are pieced carefully around you and their reactions become internalized, while you yourself will be increasingly disturbed by the 'what if that were me?' that stares out of the screen at you.
These young actors give themselves unreservedly to the film in a way that draws you into the fringes of their circle and their world. They are giving you their time, enabled by tender direction, and you are captivated by their exuberance.
Worth watching too for the portrayal of some of Dublins leafy suburbs in a most charming light, and for the poignancy with which the musical score draws the emotions out of the flatness of the screen and plants them into your heart.
A masterful piece of collective art forms from the first frame to the abrupt credit roll which leaves the Audience silent and unsettled. One for parents . and then to pay for your kids to go and see. Certain to illicit some significant family and peer group discussion. Well worth your time.