I've seen this one a few times over the years and it's never lost its impact in all this time. precocious protagonist Eammon Owens is amazing in the lead; his turn is a tour de force that keeps you riveted throughout the twisted tale. his small town Irish environment, the broken family around him and the unease caused by the threat of Cold War in the wider world all conspire to turn what are initially innocent childish shenanigans into something altogether deeper and darker. Owens' initial mischievous skirmishes with the locals introduce us to some interesting characters and although Owens himself comes across as a bit of a bully it's nice to see him enjoying youthful friendships and playing in the picturesque surroundings of his town. early on though it does become apparent that things are not quite right, firstly with his manic mother, then with his alcoholic father and lastly with Owens himself whose mind begins to unravel as we head towards the pitch black climax. the film is full of crazy episodes that veer from gleeful play to more disturbing moments and much in between. the supporting cast are great as well with excellent turns from Stephen Rea, Fiona Shaw, Brendan Gleeson and an ace and unusual cameo from Sinéad O'Connor. Owens carries the film however and as i said his turn is amazing and keeps you glued in awe throughout. never a dull moment to be had, full of fascinatingly foul-mouthed dialogue, plenty of shards of wickedly black humour and a twisted tale that spirals from bucolic light to some very dark places... excellent stuff!
Review of The Butcher Boy
