This film is worth going to see just for the scenery alone. It is set in Connemara, the west of Ireland and the views are spectacular throughout the movie. The director, Ursula Antoniak, studied at the Polish Film Academy and is more well-known for her documentaries. The film has received four Gouden Kalveren for best film and direction.

Anne has left all her possessions on the street in Amsterdam and travels to Ireland to re-discover herself. She comes across a very isolated cottage and she strikes up a very unusual relationship with the inhabitant

I don’t want to give anything away. But if you want a feel-good movie, it is far from that. It is more a film about lonliness and the attempts we make to reach-out in our lives. The actors are excellent in their roles. Stephen Rea, is so believable in his role as the older hermit and Lotte Verbeek is fantastic playing the tough, unattainable younger woman.

Their impersonal start develops into an intriguing relationship and the dialogue is short but witty. The setting of rain, cold and wind gives a real desolate feel to the whole movie. It is as if the elements are battling with the two strangers as well.

All-in-all, worth a visit and draw your own conclusions at the end!

Niamh Ni Bhroin

If you wish to comment or express an opinion about this article please e-mail the editor@TheHagueOnLine.com