On the Arm
On the Arm

Movie spotlight

On the Arm

2020
Movie
151 min
English

Louis Sareno, a young man born into the mob, searches for a way out of the only life he's ever known. Looking to find purpose and meaning in his life, Louis finds himself tumbling further down the rabbit hole of the Mafia's stranglehold on the city.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes75%
Metacritic65/100
Google Users78%
Director: J.P. McMahonGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

A struggling young actor working as a handyman in Dublin takes on a series of odd jobs while navigating the complexities of his personal life and his aspirations for a career on stage. Facing eviction and mounting debt, he must find a way to reconcile his artistic ambitions with the harsh realities of making a living.

Critical Reception

On the Arm received a mixed to positive reception from critics, who generally praised its raw authenticity and McMahon's committed performance. Some found the narrative to be somewhat meandering, while others appreciated its understated approach to the struggles of aspiring artists.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its grounded portrayal of working-class Dublin life.

  • J.P. McMahon's performance as the lead is a standout.

  • Some critics noted pacing issues but appreciated the film's sincerity.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's realistic depiction of struggle and its relatable protagonist. Many viewers found the performances compelling and the story to be an honest look at ambition versus reality.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Independent Film at the Irish Film & Television Awards (IFTA).

Fun Fact

The film was shot entirely on location in Dublin, utilizing real homes and businesses to enhance its authentic feel.

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