It has been quite some time since a good movie with a strong Irish presence has graced the silver screen in the US. However the new movie “Brooklyn”, which hit the theaters in November, is sure to be one of those that makes a lasting impression.
“Brooklyn” is a heartwarming film about a young Irish woman named Eilis Lacey who, being unhappy with the way her life was headed in Ireland, immigrates to the United States in search of a better life. The movie follows Eilis, played by the wonderful Saoirse Ronan, as she navigates life in the 1950s in New York City.
After arriving in Brooklyn, Eilis encounters the immense homesickness that many immigrants must have felt, as she tries her best to adjust to life in the States. Things heat up once she meets Tony Fiorello, an Italian American played by Emory Cohen, and the two begin a heartfelt romance. Family tragedy brings her back to Ireland, where her two vastly different worlds collide in conflict, leaving her to determine what, and who are meant to be a part of her future.
Scoring a fantastic 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the film is based on the book Brooklyn by Colm Tóibín. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2015, where it received a rare standing ovation and became one of the most expensive movie deals to come out of the festival. It has received many nominations from various awards circuits already, and is being toted as one of the top films of 2015 by film critics. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Saoirsevfound a personal connection in the Irish project. She was raised in Ireland and went through a personal move out of country similar to that of her character’s.
The movie is sure to stir up emotions in young and old alike, as it provides a touching look into what life was like for the many Irish immigrants who made New York City their home, as well as the struggles they encountered and overcame as they pursued dreams of a better future.
For a closer glimpse, take a look at the trailer for “Brooklyn” below. Will you be heading to the theaters to check it out over the holidays? Or, if you have already seen it, let us know what you think!