I love films in
the romance genre, though it often takes a willingness to forgive the
predictable contrivances of the genre. Often the goal only appears to be
satiating the audience’s desired outcome, which leads to cheesy and unbelievable
results involving beautiful actors, manipulated emotions through sentimental
soundtracks. Rarely is there a romance film containing characters resembling
real people, with actual choices to make and difficult outcomes because of
these choices. Brooklyn
is one of these rare films, demanding more from its audience while also paying
off with far more intelligent rewards due to the excellence in filmmaking. In
other words, Brooklyn
doesn’t sacrifice logic and character development for the sake of its romantic
moments, and this makes them feel earned.
Based on the best-selling novel by Colm
Tóibín, Brooklyn was expertly adapted by Nick
Hornby (An Education, Wild), a novelist once known for
presenting a humorous male perspective (Fever
Pitch, High Fidelity, About a Boy) that has inexplicably
switched to the female perspective and screenplay adaptations in recent years.
This mostly unsentimental examination of love and immigration is thoughtful
where most romances are emotional, subdued where it could easily have slipped
into melodramatic. Paired with perfect casting, expert direction and a classic
old school Hollywood cinematography, Hornby’s
screenplay elevates a simple story into something special.
When the idea
for this film adaptation first arose, Saoirse Ronan was too young to play the
part, but a long journey into production allowed her time to age. This is
extremely significant, as the role of Eilis Lacey is crucial to every aspect of
the film’s success. Having received 51 award nominations for her performance, it
seems that Ronan was indeed worth the wait, but the casting of each supporting
role in the film is just as expertly handled by Fiona Weir. Brooklyn is yet another
example why casting directors deserve a place amongst the award accommodations.
The film follows
Eilis’ journey from her home in Ireland
to Brooklyn in the 1950s in search of work and
opportunity. While she first struggles to adjust to the new lifestyle, her
experience of America Ireland Ireland America
The Blu-ray
release comes with a Digital HD copy of the film, as well as a handful of
special features. The extras are primarily packed with promotional featurettes,
no doubt created in the effort to promote the film during award season.
Thankfully, however, there is also a director’s commentary featuring John
Crowley, who also provides optional commentary over a handful of deleted and
extended scenes included. A production gallery is also included.
Entertainment Value:
8/10
Quality of
Filmmaking: 9/10
Historical
Significance: 8.5/10
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