D F

Amazing story and writing, I felt love or hate for each character. Superb acting. Great movie, wish it had some buzz to be in the running for an Oscar nomination.

Totally confused how this movie is getting such rave reviews!? Are these reviewers friends and families of the actors/ production? This movie is getting these reviews only because it was written and directed by the well respected Branagh. This film lacks the heart and connection of CODA and the Tender Bar and the longing in Power of the Dog. I streamed this in my home, the only thing I can think is maybe watching it in the theater makes it make sense? This movie fell short on what could have been an amazing story—from the catholic perspective perhaps. The choppy editing and B&W made it difficult to feel for any of the characters (except for the child). Nothing was delved into nor explained, and the sudden fighting was confusing as well as the father’s absence/gambling. What does he do—why is he so good at throwing things? Add in the strange out-of-place dance scene at the funeral near the end, and frequent colored movie splices—what is going on here!? It was a great cast, terrible story telling. I kept thinking it was suddenly going to get better—the best scene IMHO was at the hospital with grandpa “I am going no where that you can’t find me”. In fact the only time I felt anything for these characters was involving Grandpa and the boy.