
Small Things Like These | American Movie | Wiki, Cast, Synopsis, Review
Wiki
“Small Things Like These” is a 2024 historical drama film directed by Tim Mielants, based on Claire Keegan’s novella of the same name. Adapted by Enda Walsh, the film delves into the darker side of small-town life in 1980s Ireland, exploring themes of morality, societal pressures, and family obligations. With powerhouse performances from Cillian Murphy, Emily Watson, and Eileen Walsh, the film paints an immersive, often unsettling portrait of a community overshadowed by the powerful influence of the Catholic Church. Produced by Artists Equity, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, and Big Things Films, the film was shot on location in New Ross, County Wexford, Ireland, and is scheduled for release on November 8, 2024.
Synopsis
Set in the year 1985, “Small Things Like These” centers around Bill Furlong (Cillian Murphy), a hardworking father and coal merchant in a small Irish village. While delivering coal to a local convent, he stumbles upon a young girl locked away in a cold shed—a discovery that brings Bill face-to-face with disturbing secrets held by the convent. This encounter forces him to confront deeply buried emotions and memories, as he wrestles with the moral dilemma of choosing between family interests and the right thing to do.
As the story unfolds, Bill’s conscience is torn. His own daughters’ futures are influenced by the nuns who control much of the town’s education and resources. With haunting scenes and vivid storytelling, the film exposes the far-reaching influence of the Catholic Church and captures Bill’s struggle to protect his family while confronting painful truths from his own past.
Cast
- Cillian Murphy as Bill Furlong
- Emily Watson as Mrs. Wilson
- Patrick Ryan as Pat
- Peter Claffey as Barry
- Ian O’Reilly as PJ
- Eileen Walsh as Eileen Furlong
- Michelle Fairley as Mrs. Wilson
- Helen Behan as Mrs. Kehoe
- Zara Devlin as Sarah Redmond
With a stellar cast, Cillian Murphy shines as Bill Furlong, bringing nuance to a complex, morally conflicted character. Emily Watson’s performance as Mrs. Wilson captures the underlying power of the convent’s matriarchal figures. The ensemble cast effectively brings the atmosphere of a close-knit yet insular community to life.
Review
“Small Things Like These” presents an emotional and haunting reflection on morality, family, and the church’s powerful influence in Irish society. Cillian Murphy’s quiet yet intense portrayal of Bill Furlong captivates viewers as he embodies a man grappling with his past, his responsibilities, and his conscience. The film’s cinematography emphasizes a gloomy, almost suffocating atmosphere, matching the oppressive tone of the story. The choice to minimize the soundtrack amplifies the story’s raw emotional depth, letting moments of silence resonate powerfully.
Emily Watson’s performance is particularly striking, embodying the ominous influence of the convent with subtlety and restraint. The story’s pacing allows viewers to deeply connect with Bill’s inner conflict, and Mielants’ direction keeps the tension palpable, even in quieter scenes. Through skillful cinematography and the use of blurred lenses, the film visually represents moments of inner turmoil and moral blindness within the community.
Ultimately, “Small Things Like These” invites viewers to reflect on the real-life consequences of systemic power and repression. The film is not only a historical piece but also a timeless story about the cost of integrity and the importance of empathy. It’s a must-watch for those seeking thought-provoking cinema that leaves a lasting impact.
Source: IMDB
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