Andrea Houlihan

Normalise putting Ryan Gosling in glasses. The theatre I saw this in was completely silent during the fishing scene and rightfully so.  The progression of this movie was absolutely flawless and felt so natural. I can’t express how much I appreciate a nearing 3 hour movie that is so immersive it makes you feel like you are experiencing what is happening on screen.  The score for his film is massively underrated, with the church choir vocals adding to the whole religious reference the movie was going for. Hot take but I could have done with this film having a slightly higher age rating to avoid the few childish moments that I felt slightly cheapened the movie. Also wouldn’t have minded a more ambiguous ending but can’t complain since it’s an adaptation. Didn’t expect to feel so maternal towards an actual rock but here I am.

I genuinely believe that everyone should see this film at least once in their life.  Rewatched this after about a year and was immediately reminded why it’s one of my favourites.  Oscar’s complexity is so genuine and interesting with Michael B. Jordan portraying him with the respect and dignity needed for a movie like this. With each scene carrying immense importance in showing the audience Oscar’s true character and morals as well as the significance of his decision to turn his life around. A truly authentic film that is unafraid to address the dehumanising racism and police brutality faced by people of colour. The use of a hand held camera completely adds to the devastating realism of this film and makes the story hit a hundred times harder.

Wildly underrated film, maybe I’m biased because it’s Irish but the cinematography and acting was incredible. Cillian Murphy was the PERFECT casting choice for Bill. Not a whole lot happens in this film massively but it had my attention for it’s entire duration. It doesn’t demand the viewers attention but instead approaches with an awareness and confidence that anyone can engage and resonate with it in some form. I don’t think I’ve ever heard my family be so dead silent during a movie. Amazing adaptation of the book it did it so much justice in my opinion.

So camp, literally.