Saoirse Ronan as “Eilis” in BROOKLYN. Photo by Kerry Brown. © 2015 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation All Rights Reserved
The pull of home is strong. We may move away and start new and happy lives, but that pull is always there. This is the central theme in BROOKLYN, a beautiful, rich and mesmerizing film based on the novel by Colm Tóibín.
About the film:
BROOKLYN tells the story of Eilis Lacey (Saoirse Ronan), a young Irish immigrant navigating her way through 1950s Brooklyn. Lured by the promise of America, Eilis departs Ireland and the comfort of her mother’s home for the shores of New York City. The initial shackles of homesickness quickly diminish as a fresh romance sweeps Eilis into the intoxicating charm of love. But soon, her new vivacity is disrupted by her past, and Eilis must choose between two countries and the lives that exist within. The film is directed by John Crowley from a screenplay by Nick Hornby based on the novel by Colm Tóibín. The film also stars Domhnall Gleeson, Emory Cohen with Jim Broadbent and Julie Walters. The film is produced by Finola Dwyer & Amanda Posey. The filmmaking team includes director of photography Yves Bélanger, production designer François Séguin, set decorators Jennifer Oman and Louise Tremblay, editor Jake Roberts, music by Michael Brook, and costume designer Odile Dicks-Mireaux.
Emory Cohen as “Tony” and Saoirse Ronan as “Eilis” in BROOKLYN. Photo by Kerry Brown. © 2015 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation All Rights Reserved
To put it simply, I LOVED this movie. The star of the film, Academy Award nominated Saoirse Ronan, as Eilis Lacey, had a lot to do with that. She captures the screen. Her story echoes that of so many young people who immigrated into the US from Ireland in the 1950s. Work was terribly hard to find in Ireland so, like millions of others, Eilis (which is pronounced “Ay-lish”) leaves on a ship for America, knowing that she may never return home again.
Once Eilis arrives in New York, it is a totally new and foreign world and we feel her pain as she battles homesickness and tries to adjust to her new life. In the boardinghouse where she lives, run by Mrs. Kehoe (played by Julie Walters), Eilis gains insight into the do's and dont's of American life from her fellow boarders.
And then there is the romance. Eilis meets Tony – a local Italian boy. Tony's family adds some warmth and humor to the film, particularly Tony's little brother Frankie (played by James DiGiacomo) who is hilarious! – You'll spot him in the trailer above.
Emory Cohen as “Tony” and Saoirse Ronan as “Eilis” in BROOKLYN. Photo by Kerry Brown. © 2015 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation All Rights Reserved
There was so much I loved about BROOKLYN that I figure a bulleted list might be the easiest way to share a list of 10 things that made the movie one I am anxious to see again:
1. Amazing period costumes
2. A fresh look at the immigrant experience
3. The talented Saoirse Ronan
4. Beautiful cinematography
5. Those Irish accents! (Love Tony's Brooklyn accent too!)
6. Insight into the life of a single woman in the 1950s
7. The hilarious James DiGiacomo as Frankie
8. Romance
9. The Music – great soundtrack with score by Michael Brook
10. I cried – Not that I like crying, but if a movie makes me cry it has succeeded.
For another glimpse at the film, the short, powerful piece below sheds some light on the emigration aspect of BROOKLYN through clips from the film and interviews with Saoirse Ronan, Colm Toibin, and others.
BROOKLYN is now playing in select theaters nationwide. Find a theater here.
Connect with BROOKLYN on social media:
Twitter: @foxsearchlight
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrooklynMovie
Instagram: https://instagram.com/foxsearchlight/
Robin Rue (@massholemommy) says
I am so excited to see this movie. It sounds like a great story!
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
I’ve been wanting to see this ever since I saw the first commercial. This is just the kind of movie I can love myself in.
Pam says
I have heard such good things about this movie. I really want to see it!
Lindsey @ Redhead Baby Mama says
I’ll watch the film just for the costumes! If I had more free time, I’d read the book, too.
Debra says
I’ve seen the commercials and I’ve read some great reviews for this film. This is definitely my kind of chick flick!
Betsy Segars says
I’m looking forward to this movie. I can’t wait to learn what it’s like to be a single woman in the 1950s. You have me curious!
Lisa Joy Thompson says
This looks like an amazing movie! I’ll have to get a babysitter so the hubs and I can go see it on a date night! 🙂
Meagan says
I love these kind of movies! Looks so adorable!
Liz Mays says
This sounds like such a sweet movie. There are a lot of great actors involved and it would be cool getting a glimpse of history in this setting.
Jackie says
My daughter also saw it and loved it. I can’t wait to see it.
Joyce Brewer (@MommyTalkShow) says
Looks like a lovely romantic film. I agree with you. The costumes and cinematography are beautiful.
deb says
Love films that have beautiful vintage costumes. Adding to list of movies to watch.
Jeanine says
This is the first I’ve heard of this, it looks like it will be a great one. I can’t wait to see it.
Valerie says
I saw the previews for this and it looks so good. I can’t wait to see it.
Rosey says
That’s a fun movie. Brooklyn is def. on my radar.
Rosey says
Sorry to write, fun, geez. I’m babysitting the grand, who came out here when I was typing. I got distracted. 😉 This does look good. I have just started hearing about it.
Crystal says
My grandmother immigrated for Ireland when she was a teen. I loved hearing her story of her journey to America. This movie sounds amazing all on its own, but I know the connection to my grandmother will make it even more enjoyable.
Ann Bacciaglia says
This looks like a great movie and I love the look of the costumes. I look forward to seeing it.
Chasing Joy says
Seems like a good movie. I am intrigued by the singl woman in the 1950s aspect.
Seattle Travel Blogger says
I know what you mean about a movie making you cry. I don’t cry easily at movies, so if a movie makes me cry, it is a powerful one!