Brooklyn

Director John Crowley’s Brooklyn is like a beautiful jewel that increases in beauty the more it’s polished.

It’s a coming-of-age story about a shy girl, who escapes the boredom of her small town life in Ireland to come to America. 

While Production Designer François Séguin and Cinematographer Yves Bélanger have done a fabulous job of capturing the early ‘50s in both Brooklyn and Ireland, this film sings because of the absolutely wonderful performance of Saorise (pronounced Sursha) Ronan.  In the six films I had previously seen her in, she had never given less than sterling work.  

But, here, she owns the screen as she morphs from a truly plain Jane into a vibrantly beautiful woman. 

Whether you’re male or female, bring some tissues and enjoy this special treat.

I give Brooklyn a 4.8 out of 5.