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Reviews
Borstal Boy (2000)
Shockingly beautiful
Although "Borstal Boy" is in my personal Top Ten, right up there with "Casablanca" and "The Last Picture Show," I had to watch it several times before I could totally understand the heavy Irish accents. In a way, that was good, as the film is worth watching several times.
The story line takes place in 1941-42, during the darkest days of WWII for the Allies. American born Shawn Hatosy plays the part of Irish poet and writer, Brendan Behan, and does a masterful job in capturing the heavy accent, and the pathos of the era.
Charlie Milwall, played beautifully by Danny Dyer, befriends Behan and an intense friendship builds between them. Have a handkerchief ready for the Pearl Harbor newsreel scene. It's a gut wencher, and a pivotal point for Behan. His ties with the IRA won't allow him to fully cooperate with the British operators of the Bostal House (Reform school), but he reluctantly pledges to do so until Hitler is defeated. Many viewers may not be aware that Ireland remained Neutral during WW II, and it is to Ireland that Behan, Millwall and two other 'inmates' determine they must escape. Take your hankie out again, for the beach scene of the escape episode. I'm a grown man, and men aren't supposed to cry. I shed many tears during the film, and was glad the showing room was dark.
Eva Birthistle plays her role well as the only female in the movie. The friendship/love relationship between her and Behan is intriguing, and an integral part of the story. She seems to understand all, and to forgive all. For history buffs, and those who love to love, the film is an absolute Must See. Definitely deserves ten stars, despite the thick accents.
A Home at the End of the World (2004)
A Home at the End of the World
When DVD's became available, I swore I would only purchase those in my personal list of the top ten. A Home at the End of the World is in my collection, pretty close to number one. When I first viewed it, I was blown away by many aspects of the film, not the least of which was that Colin Farrell was brave enough to play the leading role in a film which some might feel has a homosexual plot. It doesn't, but it takes a strong, secure straight man to play the part Farrell played. Bravo to him, and to the rest of the cast.
In short, the film is a contemporary love story. It deals with the type of love only true friends can share. It's not erotic. It's not sexual in nature. It's just a magnificent portrayal of the intensely deep love three young friends share with each other.
One can't help thinking the studio didn't know what to do with the finished product. To my knowledge, it wasn't promoted, and few have seen it. This may be the single error associated with the film.
Be prepared for the flying saucer scene. It's a shocker. Also, if you are unfamiliar with the 'Woodstock Generation,' read up on that chapter of American history before seeing the film.
It's a film everybody who has ever loved, or been loved, should see, and then see again. It an absolute masterpiece of which few are aware.