Set at the time immediately after the Great Depression, we enter the world of little Frank, age 6, and his tough upbringing in a desperately poor family in Ireland. The film traces his growth to a young man, and is mostly about the struggle to survive, with frequent new babies not making things any easier. Add a lazy, alcoholic father, and traditional British class and religious prejudices, and life gets very grim...
145 minutes, No persons under 10 (Language)
Drama, On the Art Circuit
Ian Douglas: An interesting look at poor whites on the other side of the pond. The film is good, if a little long and depressing. The frequent deaths and toilet-related scenes also spoil the enjoyment. There are a few moments of really dark humour. Nevertheless, this is powerful cinema. And that poster gets a 10/10 for impact.
Shelley Garb (47): Wonderfully human story seen through the child's eyes therefore does not dwell on the adults' misery keeping an otherwise depressing subject warm and even humorous. Hopeful ending restores balance.
