We all have a past, and for many that past impacts how we deal with and move forward in the future. That’s a piece of what makes the new film Small Things Like These so powerful.
The film is set in a small Irish town in 1985. It’s based on the book from Claire Keegan. It focuses on Bill (Cillian Murphy), who runs his own coal and fuel business in a small town dominated by the Catholic Church. A piece of that is the home for wayward girls that is on Bill’s route.
As he’s there, he begins to notice the girls left in the care of the sisters. He has some misgivings about what happens there, especially after he discovers a young girl locked in the coal storage one chilly December morning. But the head of the order (Emily Watson) assures him it’s all fine and even tries to buy his silence.
For Bill, it hits home. His own mother was a girl in trouble who was rescued by a wealthy woman (Michelle Fairley) that provided him opportunities others didn’t have. He developed a surrogate family that cared for him, even after his mother passed away. The memories of that past flood back, leaving Bill conflicted about what he sees.
Will Bill remain a silent observer, or will he step forward to protect these young women that remind him of his mother?
Murphy is the reigning Best Actor winner at the Oscars for his work on last year’s Christopher Nolan blockbuster Oppenheimer. Here, in a much different role and a much smaller film, he shows his talent and deep emotional range. He gives a thoughtful and beautiful performance as Bill, a man who feels great internal conflict. The subtle beauty of his performance makes the final moments of the film that much more powerful.
Director Tim Mielants shows a deft hand with the material. He thoughtfully creates an atmosphere and allows this world—and its inhabitants—to take over the screen. He gets great performances, led by Murphy, and puts together a powerful exploration of these themes that is meant to honor those who suffered in these Magdalene Houses.
This is a simple story and a simple film that delivers a powerful message. I loved the craft and the execution here, making this one of my favorite films of the year so far. It’s worth seeking out.
Small Things Like These is now playing in theaters nationwide.