The 50+ Best Movies About Ireland

Ranker Film
Updated May 17, 2024 51 items
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1.3K votes
253 voters
Voting Rules
Movies about or set in the country of Ireland.

The luck of the Irish, finding a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, leprechauns, beautiful seascapes, castles overlooking the ocean, potatoes, St. Patrick’s Day, and Irish whisky – these are all quintessentially Irish. Many popular films are also set in or about the beautiful country of Ireland, thanks to its beautiful landscapes and rich history.

The movies featured on this list are the best about Ireland and all discuss the topic of Ireland in one way or another – some take a historical approach to the lives of Irish citizens and their roles in history, some are romantic movies set in the scenic beauty of the Irish countryside, while some are purely fictional entertainment based on scenes and stories from Ireland.

This list contains the best movies about Ireland including: Far and Away, The Crying Game, The Quiet Man, In the Name of the Father, Once, Michael Collins, Into the West, In America, The Secret of Roan Inish, Waking Ned Devine, Bloody Sunday, and Leap Year.

Vote up your favorite Irish flick or add a film you love about the land of Erin that isn't already on the list.
Most divisive: Tristan & Isolde
Over 200 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 50+ Best Movies About Ireland
  • Belfast
    1

    Belfast

    Caitriona Balfe, Judi Dench, Jamie Dornan
    13 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Historical, Biography, War
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: A semi-autobiographical tale from renowned filmmaker Kenneth Branagh, Belfast transports viewers to 1960s Northern Ireland during the tumultuous era of The Troubles. Showcasing both the beauty and resilience of its people, this coming-of-age drama offers an intimate portrayal of family life amidst social upheaval, inviting audiences to witness the complexity and enduring spirit of Irish society.

    Belfast is a semi-autobiographical film directed by Kenneth Branagh that captures the tumult of the late 1960s in Northern Ireland. The story is told through the eyes of young Buddy (Jude Hill), as he navigates the innocence of childhood amidst the social and political upheaval of The Troubles in Belfast. With a backdrop of familial love and cultural conflict, the film stars Jamie Dornan and Caitríona Balfe as Buddy's parents, with Judi Dench and Ciarán Hinds as his grandparents. Belfast threads themes of home, identity, and community, showcasing how a family's bond can endure even through times of strife. The film has been recognized with several awards nominations for its poignant storytelling and direction.
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  • My Left Foot
    2

    My Left Foot

    Daniel Day-Lewis, Ray McAnally, Brenda Fricker
    29 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Biography, Inspiration
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Based on the inspiring true story of Christy Brown, My Left Foot celebrates one man's triumph over adversity while offering poignant insight into working-class Dublin life during the mid-20th century. Daniel Day-Lewis' Oscar-winning performance as Brown captures the determination and grit that characterizes both his subject and his countrymen alike – a testament to growing up with disability in a time when resources were limited.

    No one expects much from Christy Brown (Daniel Day-Lewis), a boy with cerebral palsy born into a working-class Irish family. Though Christy is a spastic quadriplegic and essentially paralyzed, a miraculous event occurs when, at the age of 5, he demonstrates control of his left foot by using chalk to scrawl a word on the floor. With the help of his steely mother (Brenda Fricker) -- and no shortage of grit and determination -- Christy overcomes his infirmity to become a painter, poet and author.
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  • The Banshees of Inisherin
    3

    The Banshees of Inisherin

    Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Kerry Condon
    5 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Suspense, Thriller, Mystery, Supernatural
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Irish countryside, this atmospheric supernatural thriller delves into the depths of Irish folklore and mythology, showcasing a rich cultural heritage steeped in mysticism. As terror grips the small island community, viewers are immersed in Ireland's deep-rooted traditions and superstitions.

    Set against the backdrop of a remote Irish isle during the Civil War, The Banshees of Inisherin unfolds the darkly comedic tale of a sudden rift between two lifelong friends, Pádraic (Colin Farrell) and Colm (Brendan Gleeson). When Colm inexplicably decides to end their friendship, Pádraic, aided by his sister Siobhán (Kerry Condon) and troubled young islander Dominic (Barry Keoghan), struggles to salvage the bond, only to spark a series of events that lead to shocking consequences. Directed by Martin McDonagh, this film spotlights the themes of loneliness and existentialism. It reveals the complexity of human relationships, capturing the absurdity and tragedy of severed connections.
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  • Michael Collins
    4

    Michael Collins

    Liam Neeson, Aidan Quinn, Stephen Rea
    56 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, War, Biography, Historical, Political
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Chronicling the life of a key figure in Irish history, Michael Collins delves into the actions and motivations behind the man responsible for leading Ireland toward independence from British rule. Liam Neeson's compelling portrayal of the titular hero provides an intimate glimpse into a tumultuous era while showcasing the resilience and determination of Ireland's freedom fighters during a time of great upheaval.

    In the early 20th century, Michael Collins (Liam Neeson) leads the Irish Republican Army with the help of his friends Harry Boland (Aidan Quinn) and Eamon de Valera (Alan Rickman), in a violent battle for Ireland's independence from Britain. But, when he fears the defeat of his revolution, Collins negotiates a treaty with the British, deeming him a traitor to the IRA. When he receives orders to murder his friends, Collins must decide where his loyalties lie.
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  • In the Name of the Father
    5

    In the Name of the Father

    Daniel Day-Lewis, Pete Postlethwaite, Emma Thompson
    49 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Biography, Legal, Political, Prison
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Shedding light on one of modern history's most notorious miscarriages of justice, In the Name of the Father follows four falsely accused men – members of The Guildford Four – as they navigate British prison systems during their fight for freedom. Set against a backdrop consumed by sectarian tension between Britain and Ireland, this riveting courtroom drama exposes corruption within law enforcement while providing a powerful commentary on human rights abuses.

    In the Name of the Father, a gripping drama based on true events, unfolds the story of Gerry Conlon (Daniel Day-Lewis), an Irishman wrongfully accused. He's caught in the web of the Guildford Pub Bombings, a notorious IRA act in 1974. Together with his father Giuseppe (Pete Postlethwaite), they face the wrath of British justice. Directed by Jim Sheridan, this film won several award nominations including seven Oscars. The plot swirls around their fight for truth and freedom, exposing deep-seated corruption within the system. It's a tale of resilience, underlining human spirit against all odds.
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  • The Wind That Shakes the Barley
    6

    The Wind That Shakes the Barley

    Cillian Murphy, Padraic Delaney, Liam Cunningham
    45 votes

    For Fans Of: War, Drama, Historical, Political
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Offering a sobering look at Ireland's struggle for independence during the early 20th century, director Ken Loach brings historical context to bear on contemporary debates surrounding nationalism and self-determination. Through its captivating narrative depicting sibling rivalry amidst social unrest, The Wind That Shakes the Barley provides an unflinching glimpse into the harsh realities faced by those striving for a free Ireland.

    In 1920s Ireland young doctor Damien O'Donovan (Cillian Murphy) prepares to depart for a new job in a London hospital. As he says his goodbyes at a friend's farm, British Black and Tans arrive, and a young man is killed. Damien joins his brother Teddy (Padraic Delaney) in the Irish Republican Army, but political events are soon set in motion that tear the brothers apart.
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  • The Quiet Man
    7

    The Quiet Man

    John Wayne, Maureen O'Hara, Barry Fitzgerald
    63 votes

    For Fans Of: Romantic, Comedy, Drama, Classic
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: A classic romantic drama set against breathtaking landscapes, The Quiet Man captures the charm and beauty of rural Ireland with its idyllic countryside settings. With John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara's on-screen chemistry igniting sparks, this iconic film paints a vivid portrait of Irish culture, tradition, and community spirit.

    After accidentally killing an opponent in the ring, boxer Sean Thornton leaves America and returns to his native Ireland, hoping to buy his family's homestead and live in peace. In doing so, he runs afoul of Will Danaher, who long coveted the property. Spitefully, Will objects when his fiery sister, Mary Kate, begins a romance with Sean, and refuses to hand over her dowry. Mary Kate refuses to consummate the marriage until Sean retrieves the money.
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  • The Commitments
    8

    The Commitments

    Robert Arkins, Johnny Murphy, Angeline Ball
    35 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Music, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Delighting viewers with its heartfelt depiction of Dublin working-class life in the early '90s, The Commitments showcases Irish humor and wit alongside an irresistible soundtrack steeped in soul music. This uplifting musical comedy highlights the transformative power of song and camaraderie within an economically challenged urban community.

    Jimmy Rabbitte (Robert Arkins), a self-proclaimed promoter, decides to organize an R&B group to fill the musical void in his hometown of Dublin, Ireland. The band comes together but ends up consisting entirely of white musicians who have little experience with the genre. Even though their raw talent and lofty aspirations gain the group notoriety, the pitfalls of fame began to tear at their newfound friendships as they prepare for their big show. Based on the novel by Roddy Doyle.
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  • Brooklyn
    9

    Brooklyn

    Saoirse Ronan, Domhnall Gleeson, Emory Cohen
    13 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Romance, Historical, Adaptations
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and identity, Brooklyn tells the story of a young Irish immigrant striving for a better life in 1950s New York City. Saoirse Ronan captivates as Eilis Lacey, whose complicated relationships with both her homeland and adopted city serve as an elegant metaphor for reconciling one's past with their future.

    Young Irish immigrant Eilis Lace (Saoirse Ronan) navigates her way through 1950s Brooklyn. Lured by the promise of America, Eilis departs Ireland and the comfort of her mother's home for the shores of New York City. The initial shackles of homesickness quickly diminish as a fresh romance sweeps Eilis into the intoxicating charm of love. But soon, her past disrupts her new vivacity, and Eilis must choose between two countries and the lives that exist within.
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  • The Snapper
    10

    The Snapper

    Colm Meaney, Tina Kellegher, Ruth McCabe
    16 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Family
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Set in the heart of working-class Dublin, The Snapper provides a candid and humorous portrayal of modern Irish family life. Centered around a young woman's unexpected pregnancy, this spirited comedy-drama captures the resilience, warmth, and camaraderie inherent to Irish culture even amidst challenging circumstances.

    Twenty-year-old Irish lass Sharon Curley (Tina Kellegher) still lives at home with her mom (Ruth McCabe), dad (Colm Meaney) and many siblings. But notoriety in her small town suddenly arrives in the unlikeliest of forms when, after a boozy night on the town, she becomes pregnant and refuses to divulge the identity of the baby's father. Eventually, the not-so-proud dad is exposed, bringing new levels of embarrassment and complication to the devout Roman Catholic Curley household.
  • Waking Ned Divine
    11

    Waking Ned Divine

    Ian Bannen, David Kelly, Fionnula Flanagan
    31 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Adventure, Mystery
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Delighting viewers with its infectious humor and picturesque rural settings, Waking Ned tells the tale of a small Irish village conspiring to claim an unassuming resident's winning lottery ticket. This light-hearted comedy showcases the wit and resourcefulness of its characters while highlighting the strong bonds that hold together tight-knit communities across Ireland.

    When best friends Jackie O'Shea (Ian Bannen) and Michael O'Sullivan (David Kelly) discover someone in their small Irish village has won the lottery, they immediately set off to see if the winner is in a sharing mood. Deducing that Ned Devine is the lucky man, O'Shea and O'Sullivan pay him a visit, only to find him dead from shock. Since Devine is the only one who can claim the prize, the townsfolk band together to convince the claim inspector that O'Sullivan is really Devine, and split the cash.
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  • The Secret of Roan Inish
    12

    The Secret of Roan Inish

    Mick Lally, Eileen Colgan, John Lynch
    28 votes

    For Fans Of: Family, Drama, Fantasy, Mystery
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Blending folklore with magical realism, The Secret of Roan Inish invites viewers into an enchanting world filled with mystery, wonder, and adventure. Set against the breathtakingly rugged beauty of Ireland's west coast, this captivating family film weaves together themes of heritage, identity, and belonging – all while celebrating the rich tapestry of Irish mythology.

    Fiona (Jeni Courtney) is a young Irish girl with an unusual family history, including a long-missing baby brother. When she goes to live with her grandparents on the west coast of Ireland, Fiona hears stories about her ancestors, tales that involve mythical creatures called selkies who can shift from seal to human form. After Fiona ends up on the small island of Roan Inish, her family's ancestral home, she believes she may have found her little brother living by the sea.
  • The Boxer
    13

    The Boxer

    Daniel Day-Lewis, Emily Watson, Brian Cox
    22 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Sport, Romance
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Examining the turbulent landscape of late 20th century Northern Ireland, The Boxer dives headfirst into themes of redemption, sacrifice, and hope amidst political turmoil. Daniel Day-Lewis delivers an electrifying performance as a former fighter seeking to rebuild his life following a stint in prison – chronicling his journey to regain both personal dignity and community trust against odds stacked high by sectarian violence.

    Rising teen boxer and Belfast native Danny Flynn (Daniel Day-Lewis) was imprisoned for 14 years after getting involved with the Irish Republican Army. Newly freed from jail in his early 30s, Danny returns home and attempts to put his life back together. Reopening his neighborhood gym and reconnecting with his lost love, Maggie (Emily Watson), now a single mother while her husband is in prison, Danny battles against his former IRA compadres, including the militant Harry (Gerard McSorley).
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  • Angela’s Ashes
    14

    Angela’s Ashes

    Emily Watson, Robert Carlyle, Joe Breen
    26 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Biography, Historical
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Based on Frank McCourt's Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir recounting his poverty-stricken childhood amidst Limerick's rain-soaked streets during the Great Depression, Angela's Ashes presents a gritty yet tender view of 20th-century Irish life. Through its heart-wrenching narrative and evocative cinematography, this unforgettable drama offers an intimate look at a community defined by endurance and hope despite overwhelming adversity.

    In 1935 when it is more common for Irish families to leave their famine-stricken country for America, the impoverished McCourt family does the reverse. Following the sudden death of her 7-week-old daughter, Angela (Emily Watson) and her unemployable, alcoholic husband, Malachy Sr. (Robert Carlyle), set sail from New York Harbor to Cork with their four children.
  • Black '47
    15

    Black '47

    Hugo Weaving, James Frecheville, Stephen Rea
    20 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Action, Historical, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Set during one of Ireland's darkest chapters – The Great Famine – Black '47 is a gripping and powerful story that shines a light on the devastating consequences of British colonial rule. Combining elements of revenge thriller with historical drama, this gritty tale not only entertains but also serves as an important reminder of Ireland's turbulent past.

    In 1847 an Irish mercenary fighting for the British army abandons his post to seek revenge on those responsible for the death of his family.
  • Finian's Rainbow
    16

    Finian's Rainbow

    Fred Astaire, Petula Clark, Tommy Steele
    14 votes

    For Fans Of: Musical, Fantasy, Romance
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: This whimsical musical transports viewers to mythical Glocca Morra – a charmingly idealized vision of rural Ireland – for a delightful adventure filled with song, dance, and leprechauns aplenty. Starring Fred Astaire and Petula Clark, Finian's Rainbow serves up an enchanting slice of nostalgic escapism that celebrates traditional Irish folklore.

    Feisty Irishman Finian McLonergan (Fred Astaire) and his faithful daughter, Sharon (Petula Clark), bearing a pot of gold stolen from the leprechaun Og (Tommy Steele), settle in the village of Rainbow Valley, Missitucky. Siding with local sharecroppers like Woody Mahoney (Don Francks) against a blustering, bigoted local politician (Keenan Wynn), the McLonergans get into a number of fanciful scrapes while being pursued by the magical Og, who will become mortal if he doesn't recover his gold.
  • Once
    17

    Once

    Glen Hansard, Markéta Irglová, Hugh Walsh
    25 votes

    For Fans Of: Romance, Drama, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Captivating audiences with its tender love story set against the backdrop of contemporary Dublin streets, Once showcases the transformative power of music through its soul-stirring soundtrack and intimate performances from Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová as struggling musicians. This low-budget indie gem personifies both the melancholy and beauty inherent within modern Irish culture.

    Once is an exceptional musical drama, directed by John Carney. It showcases a unique, unspoken love story between two musicians in Dublin. The lead roles are played by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, who also composed the original songs for the film. He's a busker with a broken heart, she's a Czech immigrant selling flowers to sustain her family. Through their shared passion for music, they form an unlikely partnership that transcends language and culture. The movie won an Academy Award for Best Original Song, Falling Slowly. A poignant tale of love and dreams, Once is a low-budget masterpiece resonating with authenticity and simplicity.
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  • The Van
    18

    The Van

    Colm Meaney, Donal O'Kelly, Ger Ryan
    16 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Friendship
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Following the misadventures of two Dublin working-class pals who turn a fish-and-chips van into an unlikely source of income during an economic downturn, The Van captures the quintessential Irish spirit – buoyant, resourceful, and determined. This lively comedy offers insight into contemporary Irish society while providing plenty of laughs along the way.

    Given his experience working with food, it's hardly surprising that after losing his job at a bakery, Brendan "Bimbo" Reeves (Donal O'Kelly) becomes successful selling fried morsels from a van. He hires Larry (Colm Meaney), his best friend, to help, but having Bimbo for a boss doesn't improve their relationship. The van is eventually closed down by a health inspector -- which Bimbo thinks is because Larry ratted him out over questionable food prep techniques -- and their friendship is severed.
  • Veronica Guerin
    19

    Veronica Guerin

    Cate Blanchett, Gerard McSorley, Ciarán Hinds
    16 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Crime, Biography
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Telling the true story of Irish investigative journalist Veronica Guerin, this gripping biopic highlights the courage and integrity of a woman who exposed Dublin's criminal underworld in the 1990s. Cate Blanchett's compelling portrayal of Guerin showcases her unwavering dedication to truth and justice, reflecting the resilience and strength often synonymous with Irish culture.

    In this true story, Veronica Guerin (Cate Blanchett) is an investigative reporter for an Irish newspaper. As the drug trade begins to bleed into the mainstream, Guerin decides to take on and expose those responsible. Beginning at the bottom with addicts, Guerin then gets in touch with John Traynor (Ciarán Hinds), a paranoid informant. Not without some prodding, Traynor leads her to John Gilligan (Gerard McSorley), the ruthless head of the operation, who does not take kindly to Guerin's nosing.
  • The General
    20

    The General

    Brendan Gleeson, Adrian Dunbar, Sean McGinley
    16 votes

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Biography
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Based on the life of notorious Irish criminal Martin Cahill, The General offers an intriguing look at organized crime during 1980s Dublin while exploring themes of loyalty, family, and ambition. Brendan Gleeson delivers a captivating performance as Cahill, providing insight into a complex figure whose actions both fascinated and repelled his fellow countrymen.

    This fact-based film begins with the murder of Martin Cahill (Brendan Gleeson), one of Ireland's most infamous and violent criminals. Dying, Cahill reflects on his life -- being raised on the hardscrabble streets of Dublin, his years in reform school, learning to steal at an early age and rising from petty thief to powerful crime boss known for his brazen armed robberies. And throughout, tenacious policeman Ned Kenny (Jon Voight) dedicatedly pursuing him.
  • Some Mother's Son
    21

    Some Mother's Son

    Helen Mirren, Fionnula Flanagan, Aidan Gillen
    20 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, History, War
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Delving into the harrowing events surrounding Northern Ireland's 1981 hunger strike led by Bobby Sands, Some Mother's Son provides an unflinching depiction of political resistance amidst extreme adversity. Focusing on the struggles faced by two mothers fighting for their imprisoned sons' lives, this powerful drama reveals the devastating human cost borne by those caught within historical conflicts.

    In 1981, Kathleen Quigley (Helen Mirren), a soft-spoken Irish schoolteacher, is shocked to learn that her son, Gerard (Aidan Gillen), has been arrested for his involvement in the Irish Republican Army. In prison, Gerard and his friend, Frank Higgins (David O'Hara), participate in a hunger strike. Kathleen, who's desperately worried for Gerard's health, strikes up an unlikely friendship with Frank's mother, Annie (Fionnula Flanagan), who supports their sons' drastic choice.
  • Bloody Sunday
    22

    Bloody Sunday

    James Nesbitt, Tim Pigott-Smith, Nicholas Farrell
    27 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, War, History
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Chronicling one of Northern Ireland's most tragic and turbulent days – January 30, 1972 – Bloody Sunday provides a raw and riveting account of civil rights protestors clashing with British soldiers in Derry City. Through its intense storytelling and immersive cinematography, this gripping drama exposes the shocking brutality inflicted upon innocent civilians while illuminating a pivotal moment within modern Irish history.

    On January 30, 1972, in the Northern Irish town of Derry, a peaceful protest march led by civil rights activist Ivan Cooper (James Nesbitt) turned into a slaughter. British soldiers suddenly opened fire on the defenseless crowd, killing 13 people and wounding 14 more. Shot as if a documentary, this film follows Ivan throughout the day as it chronicles the events leading up to the horrific incident and the bloodied, confused aftermath that followed.
  • Darby O'Gill and the Little People
    23

    Darby O'Gill and the Little People

    Albert Sharpe, Janet Munro, Sean Connery
    34 votes

    For Fans Of: Family, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: A family-friendly fantasy-adventure steeped in Irish folklore, Darby O'Gill and the Little People invites viewers on a journey filled with magic, mystery, and good old-fashioned fun. Featuring clever leprechaun shenanigans alongside breathtaking landscapes capturing the essence of rural Ireland – this endearing and timeless film is sure to delight audiences of all ages.

    Just-fired Darby O'Gill (Albert Sharpe) does not want to tell his daughter, Katie (Janet Munro), that his position has been taken by a dashing younger man (Sean Connery). Then, on his way home, Darby slips through a portal to the land of the little people. There he meets the leprechaun king, Brian (Jimmy O'Dea), and winds up accidentally bringing the little monarch home with him. Darby then demands Brian grant him three wishes, but the request brings Darby bittersweet, and unexpected, results.
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  • Into the West
    24

    Into the West

    Gabriel Byrne, Colm Meaney, Ellen Barkin
    19 votes

    For Fans Of: Family, Adventure, Drama
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: A touching tale about two young brothers seeking freedom and adventure, Into the West presents a modern Irish odyssey that traverses cityscapes, rural landscapes, and coastal vistas alike. With its heartwarming narrative and striking cinematography showcasing Ireland's natural beauty – both urban and pastoral – this poignant family drama resonates with themes of resilience, hope, and self-discovery.

    Impoverished in Dublin, youngsters Ossie (Ciaran Fitzgerald) and Tito (Ruaidhri Conroy) live with their widowed father (Gabriel Byrne), who drowns his grief in drink. Their grim existence is uplifted by the arrival of their itinerant grandfather (David Kelly), who has brought with him a magical horse from legend -- Tir na nOg. But when crooked cops discover the prized animal, they commandeer it, intending to sell it as a racing horse. Furious, the boys resolve to rescue the mythical creature.
  • The Field
    25

    The Field

    19 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Thriller, Tragedy
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Set against the rugged beauty of rural Connemara landscapes, The Field delves into themes of obsession, tradition, and family as its story unfolds around a fierce farmer's attachment to his land. Richard Harris delivers an unforgettable performance in this mesmerizing drama that provides insight into the complexities of rural Irish life.

  • In America
    26

    In America

    Samantha Morton, Paddy Considine, Sarah Bolger
    16 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Romance, Immigration
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: This touching semi-autobiographical tale follows an Irish immigrant family navigating New York City's cultural melting pot while coming to terms with personal grief. Through its heartfelt narrative and captivating performances, In America explores themes of identity, assimilation, and resilience that resonate with both modern-day Irish emigrants and their ancestral counterparts.

    The Sullivan family emigrates from Ireland to New York City as father Johnny (Paddy Considine) chases his dream of being an actor. Living in a small Hell's Kitchen apartment, the family settles into American life despite their deplorable living conditions. Wife Sarah (Samantha Morton) works at an ice parlor while Johnny looks for work as an actor, both haunted by memories of their dead son, Frankie. Daughter Christie (Sarah Bolger) documents the family's American journey with a video camera.
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  • The Magdalene Sisters
    27

    The Magdalene Sisters

    Geraldine McEwan, Anne-Marie Duff, Nora Jane Noone
    16 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Historical, Biography
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Offering a haunting glimpse into the dark underbelly of 20th-century Irish society, The Magdalene Sisters exposes the shocking abuses endured by "fallen women" confined within Catholic-run laundries. Through its harrowing yet ultimately redemptive narrative, this critically acclaimed film shines a light on the resilience and strength of those who suffered at the hands of institutionalized cruelty.

    In 1964, three teenage Irish girls are sent to a Magdalene asylum, an archaic home for "fallen women," though their crimes aren't criminal. Rose (Dorothy Duffy) is pregnant out of wedlock, Bernadette (Nora-Jane Noone) has been caught flirting with a boy at school, and Margaret (Anne-Marie Duff) is sentenced for having been raped by a family member. There, the girls perform hard labor supervised by cruel nuns, led by the sneering Sister Bridget (Geraldine McEwan) -- and dream of escape.
  • Hunger
    28

    Hunger

    Michael Fassbender, Liam Cunningham, Stuart Graham
    8 votes

    For Fans Of: Drama, Biography, Political, Historical
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: A visceral exploration of Northern Ireland's infamous 1981 hunger strike led by IRA member Bobby Sands, Hunger presents an unflinching portrayal of political protest amidst extreme suffering. Showcasing Michael Fassbender's remarkable performance as Sands, this compelling drama delves deep into the heart and soul of a man driven by unwavering conviction even unto death.

    Focusing on the 1981 hunger strikes by Republican prisoners in Northern Ireland. Bobby Sands is one of a group of prisoners who first "took to the blanket" with a "dirty protest" in pursuit of their claims for recognition as political prisoners. Sands then became the first one of the group to embark on a hunger strike that was to end in his death.
  • Ondine
    29

    Ondine

    Colin Farrell, Alicja Bachleda, Alison Barry
    13 votes

    For Fans Of: Romance, Drama, Fantasy
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: Blending elements of romance, mystery, and fantasy within a picturesque coastal setting, Ondine weaves together contemporary Irish living with enchanting elements drawn from ancient folklore. Showcasing captivating performances from Colin Farrell and Alicja Bachleda-Curuś amidst stunning cinematography capturing the beauty of Ireland's west coast, this mesmerizing film offers an evocative glimpse into the complex relationship between myth and reality.

    Fisherman Syracuse (Colin Farrell), a recovering alcoholic, lives with his daughter, Annie (Alison Barry), in a small village on the Irish coast. One afternoon, a mystifying and beautiful girl, Ondine (Alicja Bachleda), gets caught in his nets as he wades along the water. Aboard the boat, Ondine brings Syracuse great luck, seemingly drawing the fish towards his nets. However, the fisherman starts to fear that Ondine may not be meant for this life.
  • Hear My Song
    30

    Hear My Song

    Ned Beatty, Adrian Dunbar, Shirley Anne Field
    14 votes

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Music
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Ireland: A heartening blend of comedy, romance, and Irish charm, Hear My Song tells the story of a Liverpool nightclub owner's quest to redeem himself by orchestrating a concert featuring legendary tenor singer Josef Locke. Through its enchanting narrative filled with warmth and wit, this uplifting gem captures the essence of Irish spirit while showcasing the transformative power of music.

    Nightclub owner Mickey O'Neill (Adrian Dunbar), a fast-talking charmer, has figured out a way to save his financial sinkhole of a business: book famous Irish tenor Josef Locke (William Hootkins) for a performance. There are several major problems, however -- Locke has been in exile for years and the man O'Neill has been in contact with is a con artist. O'Neill's reputation is destroyed, but, when the real Locke (Ned Beatty) shows up to perform, his luck may turn for the better.