Just like Cindy Lou helped grow the Grinch’s heart, “Brooklyn” made mine swell. Trust me, I’d seen the trailer and rolled my eyes, but am lucky the Cindy Lou kernel still inside me provoked a viewing.
First, even Truffaut would be enamored by the vibrant colors in this film. From Saoirse Ronan’s emerald one piece swimsuit to her daffodil cardigan, the movie’s 50’s fashions were stunning. And that’s not even addressing the beaches of Ireland!
Second, the acting was tremendous. Saoirse Ronan plays the female lead with a combination of understatement and poignancy. Emory Cohen, reminiscent of a younger mix of Brad Pitt and Sam Rockwell, was ultra-realistic as that overly faithful guy from high school that you almost wish you had married. Domhnall Gleeson plays a Ron Howardish irresistible challenger for Saorsie’s affection.
The minor roles were also spot on. Every actor/actress from the boardinghouse owner to Tony’s wise ass little brother, to Saoirse’s maudlin mother were like beautiful frosting on an already perfect cake.
Not to mention, how often do movie’s come out where you can take your teenager and your grandmother? Besides a few Irish f-bombs which really sound more like ‘feck’ so is it really swearing ?(wink wink), the movie only hints at a sexual encounter.
Though “High Fidelity” may always be my favorite, Nick Hornby strikes again with another great screenplay.
