Movies

‘Small Things Like These’ is a rich emotional journey

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'Small Things Like These' is a rich emotional journey

As a cinephile with a soft spot for films that delve into the complexities of human nature and the impact of our past, I must say that “Small Things Like These” has left an indelible mark on me. Set against the backdrop of a quaint Irish town in 1985, this film is a poignant testament to the power of one’s past experiences shaping their present actions.

Everyone carries their own history, and for numerous individuals, this past shapes the way they handle and progress through life’s challenges. This is one of the reasons why the movie “Small Things Like These” packs such a punch.

The movie unfolds in a quaint Irish village during 1985, inspired by Claire Keegan’s novel. The story primarily revolves around Bill (played by Cillian Murphy), who operates his own coal and fuel enterprise in this town heavily influenced by the Catholic Church. A significant aspect of this setting is an institution for troubled girls, which happens to be on Bill’s daily route.

While he’s present, he starts observing the girls being looked after by the nuns. He feels uneasy about the situation there, especially after finding a young girl confined in the coal storage on a cold December morning. However, the head of the order (played by Emily Watson) tries to reassure him and even attempts to hush him up about the incident.

For Bill, it deeply resonates. His own mother was in a difficult situation and was saved by a wealthy woman (Michelle Fairley), who opened doors for him that others couldn’t access. He formed an alternate family who cared for him, and even after his mother passed away, they continued to care for him. Memories of his past come rushing back, leaving Bill torn about what he witnesses now.

Is it more likely that Bill will continue to watch without intervening, or might he take action to safeguard these young women who seem to resemble his mother?

Murphy, having won the Best Actor award at the Oscars for his work in Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster Oppenheimer last year, demonstrates his versatility and profound emotional depth in a new role for a smaller film. His portrayal as Bill, a man grappling with intense internal turmoil, is both poignant and moving. The subtle nuances of his performance lend an added impact to the film’s climactic scenes.

As a gamer, I’d say: Tim Mielants skillfully weaves the storyline, crafting an immersive environment that breathes life onto the screen through his careful direction. He manages to bring out standout performances, particularly from Murphy, and constructs a compelling narrative that serves as a tribute to those who endured in the Magdalene Houses.

This is a simple story and a simple film that delivers a powerful message. I loved the craft and the execution here, making this one of my favorite films of the year so far. It’s worth seeking out.

Small Things Like These is now playing in theaters nationwide.

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2024-11-13 18:32

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