THE QUIET GIRL – Review

Most film fans know that this Sunday, just hours away, is the big award night. As a beloved former late-night talk show host used to see, even after he hosted the event, “In Hollywood, Oscar is king.” So, who’s going to wear that crown? While all the chatter is about the actors vying for the prize along with the ten (!) Best Picture contenders, this Friday we’ll get a chance to see a Best International Feature nominee that seems to be under everyone’s “radar”. But then, it’s a truly “soft-spoken” story, much like its subject. But don’t be fooled because the emotion is loud. much like its heartbeat, in THE QUIET GIRL.

And that tile character is nine-year-old Cait (Catherine Clinch) part of an ever-expanding family (another arrives soon) living in a ramshackle house in the mud of 1981 Ireland. She’s teased by her sisters, as Cait tries to hide the shame of being a bedwetter. And, yes she is quite shy, keeping silent while seeming to be always looking at her feet. Things are no better at school as she easily wanders away from the playground. This prompts a call to her surly, boozing Da (Michael Patric), who must drive her home early from school. Cait is so “invisible” that he gives a lift to one of his girlfriends from town, while Cait watches from the back seat. A decision is made. With her classes ending, and Mam (Kate Nic Chonaonaaigh) about to give birth, Cait will be spending the Summer with distant cousins, Eibhlin (Carrie Crowley) and Sean (Andrew Bennett) Cinnsealach at their dairy farm in County Waterford. Da drives Cait there and after a pint or two drives away, forgetting to leave the suitcase with Cait’s clothes. No worries as Eibhlin “makes due” with some stored-away boys’ clothes (the spare bedroom has a masculine feel). In all ways Eibhlin helps the little girl, showering her with attention and kindness. Sean is not so quick to embrace her, acting a tad distant and aloof. That changes when Eibhlin must leave the household for a day. When Cait loses her way while helping with the chores, a frantic Sean finally locates her which forms a strong bond. He even becomes a “coach”, clocking Cait’s run time as she dashes down a trail. She begins to break out of her shell, but when a local tells Cait of the couple’s secret, will this new friendship stop well before the end of the season and Cait’s return home?

In a most promising screen debut, Clinch takes on the demanding role with subtlety and natural warmth, proving to be quite compelling. She draws us into Cait’s world with no histrionics and manic gestures. If she chooses to pursue an acting career, Clinch could continue to impress if she can take on roles as well written as this. Also conveying warmth and a most generous heart is Crowley as the nurturing and gentle Eibhlin, who sees the wounded nature of Cait’s spirit and proves to be the healing force she needs, although both end up helping each other overcome their struggles. Much of that can be said of Bennet’s Sean, though he’s slow to open himself to Cait. He’s still processing his past, keeping his emotions in check, perhaps fearful of the pains of the past. He shows us Sean’s spiritual journey, as he inches toward accepting Cait, and allows her to pursue her passions. It’s the opposite of Patric, excellent as the loutish, derisive Da who offers little comfort to any of his “brood”.

All during the recent pandemic, much was said about treating others with kindness, It’s hard to think of another recent film that really embodied that sentiment. As the story unfolds slowly, at just the proper pace, we see how kindness, along with some attention, and an open heart, can truly change a lonely child’s world. Much of the film’s power must be attributed to director Colm Bairead, adapting Claire Keegan’s story “Foster”, deftly guiding this gifted cast and making superb use of the Irish locales and even the native Irish language, so lovely and lilting. He shows us Cate’s reawakening as she leaves the squalor of the family home (very overcast) and begins anew in the golden sun of the idyllic farm. Although the dramatic secret is exposed, it’s done without unneeded theatrics or fanfare. It all builds up to a truly heartwrenching finale which leaves us hopeful without giving us a heavy denouncement. Just be prepared for some “waterworks” as the end credits role. It’s simple kindness that changes the world of THE QUIET GIRL, and perhaps to those who embrace her story.

3.5 Out of 4

THE QUIET GIRL is now playing in select theatres.