Rona (Saoirse Ronan) is an alcoholic who escapes the mistakes of her past in London to the Scotland’s Orkney Islands. She struggles with sobriety and mental health issues in a harsh landscape that helps her heal.
The film flips back and forth between the present and the past using flashbacks throughout the film, which is a bit confusing at first, but the viewer soon learns that her hairstyles and colors change with time so that makes it easier to tell the time periods apart. The direction and cinematography are as beautiful beautiful as the Scottish landscape.
Saoirse Ronan gives a heartbreaking performance, vacillating between harsh, belligerent drunkenness and recovery. Even as she heals, she must also deal with her father’s bipolar disorder which, like her alcoholism, has its ups and downs. An Oscar worthy turn as a flawed yet likable character who wants to do well despite her shortcomings.
What this film really gets right are panic attacks. If you suffer from them, this will make you feel seen. An honest portrayal of mental health issues for sure. And Ronan really makes it believable.
Great little indie movie here. It’s a slow burn, so stick with it. Don’t walk out on it too early because hearing Saoirse’s laugh at the end will bring a smile to your face.
Four and a half out of five stars.
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Becky Tyler Art and Photography 
Rona (Saoirse Ronan) is an alcoholic who escapes the mistakes of her past in London to the Scotland’s Orkney Islands. She struggles with sobriety and mental health issues in a harsh landscape that helps her heal.
The film flips back and forth between the present and the past using flashbacks throughout the film, which is a bit confusing at first, but the viewer soon learns that her hairstyles and colors change with time so that makes it easier to tell the time periods apart. The direction and cinematography are as beautiful beautiful as the Scottish landscape.
Saoirse Ronan gives a heartbreaking performance, vacillating between harsh, belligerent drunkenness and recovery. Even as she heals, she must also deal with her father’s bipolar disorder which, like her alcoholism, has its ups and downs. An Oscar worthy turn as a flawed yet likable character who wants to do well despite her shortcomings.
What this film really gets right are panic attacks. If you suffer from them, this will make you feel seen. An honest portrayal of mental health issues for sure. And Ronan really makes it believable.
Great little indie movie here. It’s a slow burn, so stick with it. Don’t walk out on it too early because hearing Saoirse’s laugh at the end will bring a smile to your face.
Four and a half out of five stars.
Discover more from Becky Tyler Art and Photography
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
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