Plot: What’s it about?
Fiona (Jeni Courtney) has just been sent to live with her grandparents in Ireland, within a small fishing town named Donegal. She soon learns of a local folk tale that involves her ancestors and becomes curious as to an event in her past. The local legend holds that one of her ancestors married a selkie, or a seal that can assume the form of a human. This sounds strange to be sure, but Fiona has a feeling this legend might be more than just a tall tale. She wonders if the disappearance of her younger brother might be connected to these seals, especially when some of the locals believe the seals could be raising the young boy. While she wants to believe the stories and hold out hope for her younger brother, she also worries that the tales might be false and her brother could be gone for good. But when she discovers a naked little boy on the deserted island of Roan Inish, she realizes these tales of fantasy are not just that, but reality and she seeks to uncover the truth behind all the stories.
If you like to watch fantasy based films and fairy tale type of stuff, then this is one movie that belongs in the must see category for you. A lot of fantasy movies have been made, but few capture the simple yet magical nature of this one and maybe that’s why it packs such a punch. This movie plays much like a live action storybook with beautiful visuals and an almost dreamlike state at times. I don’t often become carried away by movies, but this is one that turns the trick every time. While the rather basic nuts and bolts approach might disappoint those who need flash and special effects to enjoy fantasy, I think most will find the simplicity one of the best aspects of the movie. The lush and gorgeous atmosphere of Ireland is well captured here also and you’ll feel immersed in the wonderful cinematography. I was pleased with the basic styles used in this respect and the movements and placements never distract from the images. Columbia/Tristar has issued a solid disc for this terrific movie and I hope it helps the film reach a new audience. I recommend this release to lovers of fantasy and fairy tales everywhere and the disc is worth the cost, whether you opt to rent or purchase.
This film was edited and directed by John Sayles, who also wrote the screenplay which was based on a novel by Rosalie K. Fry. Sayles never has much in terms of budgets, but he always manages to deliver powerful and impressive films. This film isn’t flashy or laden with special effects but it creates an effective atmosphere for the events, which is more than enough to conjure up the right mood. Of all the movies Sayles has directed this perhaps the most loved and with good reason, I think it is his finest work as well. This film comes across just as you would expect the story to, like a live action storybook. I don’t think that is an easy task to accomplish, but Sayles has done it here very well. If you want to look up more of Sayles’ movies I recommend The Brother From Another Planet, Matewan, Limbo, Lone Star, and Eight Men Out. The lead in this film is played by Jeni Courtney (Nothing Personal) and while you don’t see many young girls in the lead, she does a terrific turn here. Her performance is subtle and she never overacts, which is unusual from such a young performer. The solid supporting cast includes John Lynch (Sliding Doors, Moll Flanders), Eileen Colgan (Far And Away, Angela’s Ashes), Mick Lally (Circle Of Friends), and Richard Sheridan.
Video: How does it look?
The Secret Of Roan Inish is presented in a 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer, with a full frame version included on the disc’s flip side. As I mentioned above this movie features some wonderful visuals, so I was hoping the transfer would do the cinematography justice and it does. There is some slight film grain, but no other print wear and I didn’t see any compression errors. The colors look bright and free from oversaturation, with flesh tones appearing natural and consistent. Contrast is also sharp, with high visible detail level and solid shadow depth.
Audio: How does it sound?
This release includes a 2.0 surround track which is more than adequate, since this movie relies less than audio than most. The surrounds see action from time to time, usually from the musical score and when they’re active they sound good. The main focus here is on the dialogue and it sounds clear and crisp, with no volume issues to speak of. You’ll also find English, Spanish, and French subtitles.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This release contains an audio commentary with director John Sayles and as usual, he offers an informative and interesting track. If you’ve heard a Sayles commentary before then you know what to expect, but even newcomers should enjoy his words. You’ll also find a talent file on Sayles and theatrical trailers for this film and four other Columbia/Tristar family
