Alicia I love this movie so much

Wordiezett So much average

Stevecorp Don't listen to the negative reviews

RipDelight This is a tender, generous movie that likes its characters and presents them as real people, full of flaws and strengths.

celtic_chief I cannot understand how so many people have just given this classic play by the great Brian Friel just an average score. I take it they are incapable of understanding the deeper meaning to great European films like this. I guess if it doesn't include expensive props, they are incapable of reading under the surface. I had read this play many years ago, and loved it, and I had put off watching the film until recently. This has to be one of the greatest films that I have ever seen and one that is full worthy of a 10/10. Excellent performances by all, a powerful script, great directing. This is a must for everyone who wants more than fast cars and expensive props.

phasermuse This is a lovely film with a simple story line: the day to day lives of a family (all women, though one brother who very much counts at least in his ruined optimism) and a (love) child and a father. I found the group very loving and burning deep inside for life to bring them something each wanted. The terminal sadness lay in the fact that none of them were able to rise to a powerful and charismatic persona that conquers the world, which has so often been used in other films (Seldom in plays. They are too real and difficult.) to satisfy our need to live through the character(s) and become a force to be reckoned with. I never read the play (to my chagrin) nor did I see the Broadway show which I recall received much praise, but though I too was saddened as the family structure unravels, I felt it was so true that I had to accept the way the story comes to a close.I didn't view the film with the thought of this family being staunch Catholics, with the fervid strictness imposed on the lives of believers (in that country, particularly). Nevertheless I found the dance (where Danny tries to overwhelm Rose, and thanks to her brother does not succeed) alarming and disquieting, whereas the dance performed by the five sisters was alive with joy and desire-- abandon--which when the music stops, they each fall into self-consciousness at the revelation of their deep feelings.I give the movie a 9 only because I do not have the technical, critical, artistic knowledge to give it the 10 I believe it deserves.

cogitoergosum-1 Ask yourself something... How many movies have you seen where all of the principal characters are women. Not too many I bet.This movie is a gem and definitely worth seeing.Takes place in rural Ireland in 1936 and consists of the dynamics and interpersonal relations of a group of 5 sisters, 1 brother, 1 son and a mostly absentee father.Outstanding cinematography, wonderful screenplay, good solid flavorful characters (even the few minor male roles - Michael Gambon steals the show every time he appears) and the cast ensemble just blends effortlessly.I would venture to bet that the people who didn't care for this movie, didn't like it because it isn't a happy "Joy-Joy" ending; In fact, it repeatedly lifts you up and takes you down again running the whole range of powerful emotions. Welcome to Life 101 ladies and gentleman! Life has it's bittersweet moments which give it meaning and substance.If you value character development and portrayal, then you'll love this movie just like I did.

marponder I just saw this movie on cable, and not having seen the play, was able to truly enjoy and relate to the people and situations portrayed in it. I can imagine that the play was deeper, etc. The same thing happens in adaptations of books into movies. But as someone who knew nothing at all about this movie, I was transfixed for the whole time I watched it and sad at the end. I recommend it highly, especially for lovers of Ireland, Irish drama, Meryl Streep, and the 30's. You won't be wasting your time!!***P.S. Is it considered a spoiler if you state that a film seemed sad to you? That is the only reason I added the spoiler notation. Or do you have to actually spell out what happened? Thanks.