MOVIE | A Heartwarming Masterpiece Set in Ireland: 'The Clockmaker of Dublin'
MOVIE | A Heartwarming Drama Set in Ireland
"The Clockmaker of Dublin": A Human Drama About the Rebirth of Imperfect Lives
Set against the backdrop of an Irish winter, "The Clockmaker of Dublin," a human drama depicting the rebirth of imperfect lives, will be released sequentially nationwide starting Saturday, March 29th, at Shinjuku K's cinema, Shibuya Uplink, and other theaters.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
Director Dara Byrne, Known for Documentaries, Takes the Helm
"The Clockmaker of Dublin," directed by Dara Byrne, who comes from a documentary background, captures the "now" of Ireland, a land past its boom times once known as the "Celtic Tiger." Centered on Fred, a clockmaker who has lost his job and home, the second hands of three imperfect lives begin to move.
The role of the protagonist, clockmaker Fred, is played by Colm Meaney, a veteran actor beloved by the Irish people. He portrays the imperfect middle-aged man, who has lost his place to return to and lives in his car, with a humor tinged with sadness. Colin Morgan, popular in Japan for his role as Merlin in the TV drama "Merlin," delivers a passionate performance as Kahal, a young man who, despite his cheerful demeanor, carries deep emotional scars.
Fred Falls for a Widowed Piano Teacher at First Sight
Fred, a clockmaker who lost his job in London and returned to his hometown of Dublin, was living each day in despair, unable to accept the harsh reality of being jobless and homeless. However, through his encounter with Kahal, a young man who becomes his "neighbor," he gradually discovers a new self. As Fred was positively embracing his new life, he happened to meet Jules, a widowed piano teacher at a swimming pool, and fell instantly in love.
She possessed a melancholic aura, while he was a homeless man with nothing. He tried to give up, thinking it was a love across social divides, but with Kahal's encouragement, Fred decided to attend swimming lessons to see her. Meanwhile, Kahal was entangled in past troubles and caught up in drug-related incidents.—.
The character of Fred was crafted by director Dara Byrne after listening to the voices of many homeless individuals. It is a story that speaks for the voiceless in the corners of Dublin, a tale as bittersweet and warming as a good whiskey.
"The Clockmaker of Dublin"
Opening Saturday, March 29th, at Shinjuku K's cinema, Shibuya Uplink, and other theaters nationwide.
Director | Dara Byrne
Starring | Colm Meaney, Colin Morgan, Mícheál Ó Conaill
Distribution | Uplink
2010 | Ireland, Finland | 90 min
http://uplink.co.jp/dublin/