Brooklyn is a beautiful film, in both presentation, with its lush cinematography, and delicate execution.  It’s an intimate tale of one girl’s struggle to find the life she wishes to lead – but told on a grander scale, courtesy of its 1950s transatlantic setting, without ever feeling overblown.

Saoirse Ronan commands the screen as Eilis, supported by a sparky Julie Walters, an adorable Domhnall Gleeson and Emory Cohen, whose mumbled delivery is somewhat reminiscent of a young Brando.  Despite the limitations on Eilis’ future, Brooklyn provides enough gentle humour and sincerity to reassure the audience of her happiness.

With no pretences to be anything other than what it is – a simple, but lovely, coming-of-age drama – Brooklyn’s story and actors hit the perfect notes of poignancy and truth.

RATING: 4/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Saoirse Ronan, Domhnall Gleeson, Emory Cohen, Julie Walters, Jim Broadbent, Fiona Glascott

DIRECTOR: John Crowley

WRITER: Nick Hornby, Colm Toibin (novel)

SYNOPSIS: Opportunities are limited for Eilis (Ronan), a girl from 1950s rural Ireland, and so when a move to New York is proffered she sets out to see if Brooklyn – and all the things it has to offer – will be the making of her.