Modern Irish Films

 The most famous films thought to be Irish are those which appeal to an international audience such as The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006), Ryan's Daughter (1970) and The Quiet Man (1952). However none of these films are in fact Irish and none of them represent the true Irish people. Instead these films are glorious fantasies that people hope to be true. I am not saying they are not enjoyable films to watch which they are. But I would like to offer an alternative for those people who would like to know more about the Irish character and our diverse ways of living. I have selected three superbly made films that each offer unique perspectives on modern Ireland.

This is a gem of a film that is set in rural Ireland and portrays the life of a lonely yet somewhat happy bachelor. Josie has spent his entire adult life working in a run down petrol station on the outskirts of a small village, indeed on the outskirts of civilization. The story takes place over the course of the summer during which Josie tries to come to terms with the road not travelled. He begins to ask questions about the things he missed out on like a relationship with a woman. During a conversation with a teenage apprentice, Josie explains that he once had the opportunity to emigrate from rural Ireland but decided not to take it. He maintains that he made the right decision but his facial expressions contain regret. The main character is played by famous Irish comedian Pat Shortt but the mood of this film is quite sombre and disturbingly believable.

 A complete contrast from the rural setting of Garage, this fast paced film is set primarily in the heart of Dublin City. It is a story that pits the innocence of youth against the evils of experience. Two kids, Dylan and Kylie feel forced to abandon their suburban homes at the edge of the city in order to escape the wrath of their outraged parents. They head for the inner city with a handful of cash found by Kylie under her sister's bed. After a serene journey along the canal, they arrive at their destination and begin to spend the money without knowing its worth. As night falls they encounter the darker side of the city. Having spent all the money they find themselves with nowhere to stay and nothing to eat, and only each other to depend on.

 This film in its own unique way captures the Irish philiosophy 'laugh to hide the tears'. The Van is arguably Ireland's funniest film and as with most Irish comedies, there is a deeper, darker element. Colm Meaney stars as an unemployable middle aged man just before the Celtic Tiger period. The film is based in the Dublin suburbs from the winter of 1989 until the summer of 1990. Larry (Colm Meaney) has been unemployed for some time and as Christmas approaches his good friend Bimbo also loses his job. As the weeks unfold the two occupy themselves any way they can to avoid thoughts of their current plight. However, as their wives go out to work, Larry and Bimbo are naturally feeling like burdens on their families. As the 1990 world cup approaches, they decide to buy an old chip van and combine their efforts to launch a business of their own, selling fish and chips on the side of the road. 

 These films really are hidden treasures. Having been made by Irish people for an Irish audience they have not transcended to international audiences as one might expect from great films. However, they are quintessentially Irish and a really good watch.