Movies about Ireland or set in Ireland are fairly common. Everyone has probably seen Tom Cruise in Far and away and most people recognise his accent as something more akin to a leprechaun in Disney world than an Irish person. Although for what its worth I did quite enjoy Far and Away I wouldn’t consider it Irish. Principally because it doesn’t portray a realistic view of Ireland and half of it is set in the States. It’s a bit more plastic Irish just like an Irish bar in downtown Tokyo. The list below is of films that were made and produced primarily by Irish people and the principal actors in the movie are Irish, therefore no fake Irish accents. Most of these movies you will not have heard of mainly because they didn’t have big budgets to advertise outside of Ireland. The below is a mix of great movies, the themes and motifs differ considerably, the only thing they have in common is that they are Irish.

Intermission

This film is a mish mash of stories that all eventually link together; meanwhile you get some great Irish humour and terrific acting. Colin Farrell was at the height of his fame when he decided to fly back from Hollywood and take on the part of the bad guy in this low budget film. The film was directed by John Crowley and also stars Cillian Murphy,Colm Meaney and Kelly McDonald.

The wind that shakes the Barley

Ken Loaches powerful drama is based in West Cork and follows the life of a young rebel as he gets involved in the struggle for independence. It was the winner of the 2007 Palme D’or and is recognised as Loaches finest pieces of work. Cillian Murphy plays the lead role of Damien.

In Bruges

Although shot entirely in the Belgian city of Bruge the two principal actors and the production staff are Irish so I’m calling it Irish. Two hitman are on a long deserved weekend break when all hell breaks lose. Starring both Brendan Gleeson and Colin Farrell.

Once

John Carneys low budget modern day musical received a standing ovation and an audience award at sundance and an oscar for best original song. Based in modern day Dublin a busker and an immigrant meet sing together and eventually fall in love. A real charming happy movie.

My left foot

Daniel Day Lewis did a terrific job in depicting the life of Christy Brown the artist and writer who suffered from cerebral palsy throughout his life. This movie is based on his autobiography “my left foot”. Brown used his left to write and paint throughout his life and is one of Irelands best known artists.

Bonus

The video below is a powerful award winning short movie I stumbled across about a year ago. It addresses the problem of male suicide in Ireland. If you have a few minutes to spare check it is well worth checking out!