Clodagh: Short Film Review

23rd December 2024

Clodagh: Short Film Review

An elderly Irish dance instructor, Mrs. Kelly (Neachtain), is hesitant to let a talented girl join her class. She’s a priest’s housekeeper, takes care of the church, and coaches an Irish stepdance class for girls. One day, after some convincing, Kelly agrees to let Clodagh (Downey), an experienced young girl, join her class. After Clodagh watches the students perform, it’s her turn, and her dancing skills impress Kelly and Mr. Hickey (Kitson), the violinist. Overwhelmed by what she sees, Kelly is eager to train the new student, but an unexpected discovery prevents Clodagh from joining.

This short drama uses dancing and religion to explore dreams, self-reflection, self-discipline, old age, and inner struggles. The film is seen through Kelly’s perspective, and the conflict arises from her refusal to go against her beliefs to let Clodagh join her class. The reason why Clodagh can’t join is minor, but Kelly seems unwilling to overlook it, yet she really wants it to happen and must confront herself if she’s to achieve her goal.

Kelly is a strict and religious person who believes in never doing wrong, a trait she likely learned from her upbringing. She has a passion for step-dancing, but her upbringing prevented her from pursuing it. Now, she lives a lonely life with a priest and finds joy by teaching dancing. Kelly undergoes significant character development, and Neachtain plays the part brilliantly.

Step-dancing is a big part of this movie, and it really brings out the characters’ joy. The scene where Clodagh dances is probably the best part of the whole movie. It’s because of the happy mood and the creative way the movie is made. First, the choreography by Clare Watson and Lisa Watson is amazing, and Downey does a great job during the event, as does Kitson, playing the violin. Then, there are the camera moves that are really impressive, especially the arc shots, which, along with Harry Cepka’s fast editing, make the sequence really lively. And finally, the music by Fergal Scahill makes the scene even better.

On the surface, this is a story about dancing and religion. But deeper, it’s a story about a woman’s life that reaches a big decision point: whether she should stay true to herself or bend a little bit to get what she wants. It’s a beautiful and emotional short film that seems to have a message that says that sometimes people have to pay a price to get what they want.

Facebook

Google

Twitter

We hope you're enjoying BRWC. You should check us out on our social channels, subscribe to our newsletter, and tell your friends. BRWC is short for battleroyalewithcheese.