Tuesday March 2nd 2021

Corpus Christi (15)

2019. Poland. Drama. 116 minutes

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Daniel’s dreams of joining the priesthood after serving time in prison are dashed when he discovers his crimes disqualify him.  On release he is sent to work in a sawmill but while visiting a nearby church he pretends to be a priest. Believing his lies, the local vicar leaves him in charge while he departs for medical treatment.  Daniel’s unorthodox approach soon uncovers a dark secret at the heart of the village and his quest for forgiveness brings him unwanted attention.  What sounds like the set up for a comedy of misunderstandings turns into a tale of faith, love and redemption, in this acclaimed film, nominated for Best International Film at the 2020 Oscars. Subtitled.

“It's flawless storytelling, effortlessly played and with a rousing conclusion.”  The Times

Tuesday March 16th 2021

Saint Frances (15)

2020.  USA.  Drama. 101 minutes

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You’ll be hard pushed to find a bad review of this smart, funny and touching comedy drama, a deserved winner at many a film festival in 2019.  Drifting thirtysomething Bridget leads a fairly aimless life, waitressing while never knowing what she truly wants.  While dealing with emotional repercussions from a pregnancy termination she takes a job as a nanny to a smart six year old girl, Frances.  As the summer progresses and her relationship with Frances develops, Bridget starts to get a better understanding of herself and her hopes.  

“It's this lightness of touch that makes this beautiful film so appealing: just because you're laughing, it doesn't mean you're not taking a subject seriously.” Irish Independent.

Tuesday April 6th 2021

Judy & Punch (15)

(2019. 105 minutes. Australia)

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We're always keen on Australian films, and we love  debut from a new voice in cinema, here's both in an intriguing and unusual take on a familiar story.

In the 17th century, Judy and Punch are puppeteers in the town of Seaside, England, who are attempting to bring their marionette show back into the public eye. Judy wins the crowd with her puppetry but Punch’s drinking and jealousy leads him to commit a terrible act.  Judy then rallies the town’s outcasts to help her take revenge.  This darkly comic film is a feminist take on the origins of Punch & Judy and showcases classic characters in a new light.

“What a killer debut this is; that's the way to do it!” The Guardian

Tuesday April 20th 2021

Days of the Bagnold Summer (12A)

2020.  Comedy. UK.  86 minutes

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Possibly the most charming film you’ll see in a long time, director Simon Bird’s debut is a quintessentially British tale of a teenage boy’s aimless summer, in all it’s painful glory.  When 15 year old Daniel’s plans to spend summer in the US with his father fall through, he faces a long holiday at home trying to get on with his librarian mum, Sue.  The joy here is the all too familiar push and pull of a relationship that while never perfect, is still grounded in love.  You’ll recognise Monica Dolan (Sue) from her work in many a TV show, and she is simply brilliant here, as is Earl Cave in his first role as Daniel. If you’ve ever seena fudge making demonstration in a small seaside town, this is the film for you.

“Monica Dolan exudes warmth, intelligence and resilience as a woman whose self-confidence has taken knocks but who's still out there fighting.” Time Out

Tuesday May 4th 2021

A Beautiful Day In The Neighbourhood (PG)

2019.  Drama. US. 109 minutes

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Tom Hanks plays legendary (In the US at least) children’s TV show presenter, Fred Rogers.  When investigative journalist Lloyd Vogel (Matthew Rhys) is assigned to write a profile, he approaches Fred with scepticism, surely no-one can be that kind and good?  But as Fred’s essential decency chips away at Vogel’s jaded character, the reporter has to face up to his own painful past.  There can be no-one better than Hanks to embody American greatness in a tale of acceptance, faith and understanding.  So come along, just sit back and enjoy.

“What a difference a day makes, when it's a day as beautiful as this.” London Evening Standard

Tuesday May 18th 2021

What They Had (15)

2017.  US. Drama. 101 minutes

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Bridget (Hilary Swank) has to return to her childhood home after her mother’s alzheimers worsens and the family must decide whether to put her in a special facility. Her brother is determined she should go and her father (A simply brilliant Robert Forster) is determined to look after her at home. From a simple everyday set up, director and screenwriter Elizabeth Chomko fashions a beautifully moving film with four superb performances. With occasional flashes of mordant humour, What They Had celebrates life and love.  Never depressing, this is a film of real heart and a fitting tribute to the late Robert Forster.

“Top-notch dialogue, earthy characterisation and an authentic angle on a weighty theme.” Sunday Independent

Tuesday June 1st 2021

Dark Waters  (12A)

2020.  Drama. US.  127 minutes

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Director Todd Haynes’ (Carol) latest was sadly overlooked last year, and we do love a courtroom drama, especially one based on a true story.  When a huge chemical company pollutes a small town with an unregulated substance, local lawyer Robert Bilott sues and quickly becomes a target for their underhand tactics, risking his life and family in the process.  Mark Ruffalo, Anne Hathaway and Tim Robbins star in this unshowy, solid thriller.

“The director and his leading man have turned a dry legal battle into a gripping yarn, without sacrificing tension and with some superb acting in a fine drama about justice finally being served.” RTE Ireland