Watched this little gem of a film last night for the first time in years. A magical tale of love, regret, anxiety, guilt...everything an Irish move should have and then so much more.
Martin Sheen is and has always been a favourite of mine. His performance in Da is undoubtedly among his best ever work. But when I listen to him narrate this story it automatically becomes even more enchanting. His voice makes the audience feel as though they're sitting in the little kitchen with the family.
This film manages to find a perfect balance of laughter and sadness, happy tears and sad tears. One minute you'll feel totally empathetic to Charlie (Sheen) as he reminisces on times gone by and the next minute you'll be howling with laughter as Charlie is being scolded and embarrassed by 'Da'.
Finally, Bernard Hughes is an absolute gem. I'd forgotten what a fantastic performance he gives in this film. In a brilliant character twist it is Da who plays the joker, he's the child of the family while young Charlie is constantly dreaming of bettering himself thus proving to be a broody and almost unlikeable character. In effect it's almost as if Da and Charlie have swapped roles in the family.
As a result of watching this little gem it has jumped right up there with some of my favourite films. A classic and one I'll always keep hold of in my DVD collection!!
Martin Sheen is and has always been a favourite of mine. His performance in Da is undoubtedly among his best ever work. But when I listen to him narrate this story it automatically becomes even more enchanting. His voice makes the audience feel as though they're sitting in the little kitchen with the family.
This film manages to find a perfect balance of laughter and sadness, happy tears and sad tears. One minute you'll feel totally empathetic to Charlie (Sheen) as he reminisces on times gone by and the next minute you'll be howling with laughter as Charlie is being scolded and embarrassed by 'Da'.
Finally, Bernard Hughes is an absolute gem. I'd forgotten what a fantastic performance he gives in this film. In a brilliant character twist it is Da who plays the joker, he's the child of the family while young Charlie is constantly dreaming of bettering himself thus proving to be a broody and almost unlikeable character. In effect it's almost as if Da and Charlie have swapped roles in the family.
As a result of watching this little gem it has jumped right up there with some of my favourite films. A classic and one I'll always keep hold of in my DVD collection!!