The Best Films That Capture and Exemplify Irish Culture.

Synonymous with beautiful landscapes and unforgettable celebrations such as St. Patrick’s Day, Ireland is a country that has always enchanted the imagination of those who are passionate about cinema. As result, there are several on-screen stories set in this mythical country. For those who may have Irish heritage, or simply just want to embrace the culture more, several films capture the quintessential culture and mood of Ireland.

Finian’s Rainbow (1968)

Ireland is famous for many things, but its biggest symbol is the famous leprechaun. This mythological figure derives from Irish folklore and is considered the guardian of many hidden treasures. Leprechauns are frequently associated with luck and shamrocks and are a symbol of Ireland around the world.

This popular theme has also inspired films, namely Finian’s Rainbow. The film is based on a play written by EY Harburg and Fred Saidy and was adapted to the screen in 1968. Directed by the then-rookie director Francis Ford Coppola, who was only 29 years old at the time, the movie is a fantasy musical/fairy tale. It features an authentic Irish leprechaun and a magical pot of gold in a narrative hinting at themes such as racism and social injustices.

Not only that, but the culture of Ireland has also transcended into other areas of entertainment. The imagery and mood of Ireland are also captured in Rainbow Riches. This slot game has everything you would expect, rainbows, leprechauns and even more. In a way, it’s somewhat fitting that this theme is applied to a slots game. Typically, games of this theme will adopt imagery related to rainbows, shamrocks, pots of gold and even the Irish woodlands. The same applies to Rainbow Riches too

Fred Astaire plays Finian McLonergan in this film, a man who left Ireland with his daughter, a pile of suitcases and also a pot of gold stolen from a goblin. Upon arriving in the United States, McLonergan buries the pot of gold, but soon enough the goblin he had stolen the gold from appears looking for it.  This film, which was Fred Astaire’s last musical, features beautiful dance scenes and plenty of irony.

Frank (2014)

John Burroughs (Domhnall Gleeson) dreams of being a keyboard player and songwriter for a big band. One day, an accident offers him the opportunity to play in a group led by Frank (Michael Fassbender). John is fascinated by the vocalist, a generous and strange figure who has a peculiarity: Frank wears a gigantic artificial head which he never removes, not even to eat, bathe or sleep. 

Soon, John, Frank and the other members of The Soronprfbs retire to a cabin to test out new sounds, get to know each other and produce the best album possible. However, the interactions between the band are not always easy. 

This indie black comedy premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and was met with very positive reviews.

Once (2007)

This captivating romance is set in the capital of Ireland, Dublin. The film tells the story of a musician and composer Glen Hansard who plays in the streets of Dublin while maintaining a steady job as a vacuum cleaner repairman in his father’s shop. After meeting a Czech pianist (Markéta Irglová), they work together to make a demo disc to try and secure a deal with a producer.

Bound by their dreams and yearnings, they share a relationship based on support and understanding. As a result, the opportunity to compose songs together also gives way for a love affair to emerge. This simple but profound musical received very favourable critics and won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.

If you haven’t had the chance to watch all of these films, we highly recommend you do. We’re certain you’ll fall in love with Ireland, and if you do, you should visit.

The Best Films That Capture And Exemplify Irish Culture

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