The Berlinale has officially kicked off with the world premiere of Small Things Like These, produced by and starring Cillian Murphy. It is also the first Irish film to open the festival.
Director Tim Mielants brings Claire Keegan’s novel to life. Set in 1985, Ireland, the story revolves around Bill Furlong, a hardworking coal merchant striving to provide for his family. Furlong, portrayed by the talented Cillian Murphy, is a humble and simple man with clear principles. The story takes a poignant turn when he stumbles upon the Catholic Church’s exploitation of “fallen girls.” This revelation forces him to confront his values, setting the stage for a powerful exploration of morality and the broader human experience.
Academy award nominated actor Cillian Murphy delivers a nuanced and compelling performance, capturing Bill Furlongs complex nature and inner conflict in a way we haven’t seen before, making his portrayal stand out as a testament to his versatility as an actor. But his is not the only performance that stands out. The strong female-led performances by Eileen Walsh, Michelle Fairley, Emily Watson and Clare Dunne are equally as powerful and add layers of depth to the film’s emotional landscape.
Cinematically, this film is beautifully shot, Mielants creates a visually stunning backdrop for the emotionally charged narrative, showcasing its contrasting themes with excellent lighting and shadows. Switching between warm and cool colors, that sometimes come off as quite intense, they pull you right out of a scene and into the next. The sound, designed by Senjan Jansen, stands out as we can hear every one of Bill Furlong’s breaths, church bells ringing in the background and a gaggle of geese, making for an immersive experience for the viewer.
While the film may have its moments of being a bit slow-paced and understated, leaving me yearning for more exploration of specific elements, it’s precisely this humbleness what makes it stand out. With an incredible screenplay deeply rooted in Irish history, the film skillfully tackles the sensitive themes surrounding the abuse of power by notorious institutions that took in pregnant girls and forced them to do unpaid manual labour.
When I stepped out the theatre, I heard people question the decision of making ‘Small Things Like These’ this year’s opener. But I believe it was a perfect choice to represent what the Berlinale is about. The film not only engages but also challenges, creating a connection that transcends the screen and lingers with you for quite a while.
-Mel