MOVIE: Rosie secures her place among Irish classics

Paul O’Rourke

WHILE we have been banging on lately about “important” films and their entertainment value or otherwise, a small Irish movie called ‘Rosie’ has thrown its particular hat into the same ring. 

And while its story of the Irish homeless crisis is certainly worthy of “important” status, this homegrown offering differentiates itself from the competition with one simple ingredient – it’s really good.

The film tells the all to familiar tale of a young Irish mother struggling to secure rented accomodation for her family after their landlord decides to sell. 

Rosie, played by Sarah Greene, is aided in her parental efforts by partner John Paul (Moe Dunford) who works hard to keep things afloat, but the constant need to find temporary accommodation while attempting to juggle three school-going children and maintain one’s dignity, proves almost impossible. 

The script is written by none other than Roddy Doyle who was so moved by the housing situation in Dublin that he wrote a film about it, and together with the expert direction of Paddy Breathnach (‘Viva’), the duo have more than pulled it off. 

Doyle once again shows his deep understanding and empathy for the plight of the working class in a beautifully crafted and realistic depiction of one woman’s struggle against the system. 

The script is expertly crafted with mounting tension that would leave even the most cynical viewer rooting for our hero. 

It may also make you question if you want to live in a society where some people own 10 houses while others sleep in a police station. 

Special mention has to go to the outstanding performance from Sarah Greene who is always on point, and the excellent Moe Dunford who delivers his role with more subtlety and class than we have witnessed to date. Two fine actors portraying brilliantly drawn characters, decent parents, the type you hope will get a break. Whether or not Rosie ends up securing a place in the end, we argue that the film deserves its place among Irish cinematic classics. 

Rosie opens across the country on October 12, and we award it a review score of 5 homely stars.