Thursday, November 12, 2015
Brooklyn Review - 4 Stars
“Brooklyn” is a grand old-fashioned movie in the best sense of the word aided by an award worthy performance by Saoirse Ronan. Based on a novel by John Crowley, Ronan begins the story in Ireland working in a shop. Her sister wants a better life for her and engages the local priest to sponsor Ronan’s relocation to America. Ronan endures sea sickness, homesickness, and the fear of finding one’s way. As her life improves, and love finds her, tragedy strikes, sending her back to Ireland. “Brooklyn” explores the value of home and choices and making a life. Julie Walters has some especially great moments as Ronan’s landlady, and Jim Broadbent stands out as a kindly priest. Ronan’s two love interests, American Emory Cohen and Irishman Domhnall Gleeson gain our attention equally. “Brooklyn” is one of the year’s most enjoyable and heartfelt stories. Does it deliver what it promises? Great coming of age love story. Is it entertaining? Wonderful story telling. Is it worth the price of admission? Go see it.