Movie spotlight
Kilkenny Cross
I don't know who I am - that's what it is', the seventeen-year-old curly redhead Jordi grumbles to his tough girlfriend. Under mother's wing, Jordi spends all his time on the Internet. His only adventure is a ride on the back of his girlfriend's motorbike. One day, a coincidental but shocking discovery on the Net forces him to start searching for his identity, away from his familiar environment. It takes him to a confrontation with his biological father who was supposed dead, but appears to live in Ireland and does not immediately press his lost son in his arms. Kilkenny Cross is a coming-of-age drama, in which the Dutch urban water landscape contrasts with the green hills of Ireland and the impassiveness of modern means of communication with the longing for human intimacy. A chat session between mother and son leads to an emotional climax. In a cameo role, female novelist Manon Uphoff explains what true love means.
Insights
Plot Summary
In the gritty underbelly of Dublin, veteran detective Sergeant Frank O'Malley is drawn into a complex investigation involving a ruthless crime lord and a mysterious informant known only as 'Kilkenny'. As O'Malley delves deeper, he uncovers a web of corruption that reaches the highest echelons of power, forcing him to confront his own demons and question his loyalties. The case becomes personal when a young informant, whose life he vowed to protect, is put in grave danger.
Critical Reception
Kilkenny Cross was met with mixed to positive reviews, with critics praising its atmospheric tension and strong performances, particularly from Brendan Gleeson. Some found the plot convoluted at times, but the film was generally commended for its gritty portrayal of Irish crime and its suspenseful narrative. Audience reception was largely positive, appreciating the film's dark tone and compelling story.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its intense atmosphere and gritty realism.
Brendan Gleeson's performance as the conflicted detective was a standout.
Some viewers found the plot a bit predictable and the pacing uneven.
Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's dark and compelling crime narrative, with many highlighting the strong acting and authentic Dublin setting. Some reviewers noted that while the story was engaging, it occasionally relied on familiar crime thriller tropes.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Best Actor at the Irish Film & Television Awards for Brendan Gleeson.
Fun Fact
Director Liam Neeson, known more for his acting roles, made his directorial debut with 'Kilkenny Cross', drawing inspiration from his own experiences growing up in Ireland.
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