Jim Sheridan's Must-See Films

If you are an Irish movie buff, you are certainly familiar with the films of celebrated Dublin-born director Jim Sheridan.  If you have a bowl of popcorn and a night-in planned, you may find this list of Sheridan films helpful.  I have seen all of his early work, and I am now eager to watch his more recent offerings.  I find Sheridan's films to be a rare balance: emotive and educational.  As the credits roll you know more about the historical setting of the story, and you know more about human nature, as well.  These are movies that stay with you.  Enjoy!

My Left Foot (1989)

This is Daniel Day-Lewis' Oscar winning portrayal of Christy Brown, a man born with cerebral palsy.  Brown taught himself to paint using only his left foot, and the film is based on his autobiography.  The exceptional acting and Sheridan's exploration of family, class, disability, and love make this a cinematic ca

The Field (1990)

Based on the John B. Keane play, this film was a box office failure, but has since become a cult classic. It is possibly the most depressing movie I've ever seen, but it has given me a crucial understanding of the Irish passion for the land itself.  You won't want to see it twice, but you should definitely see it once.

In the Name of the Father (1993)

The shocking true story of Gerry Conlon and his father Guisseppe, who were wrongly convicted and jailed for the 1974 Guilford Pub bombings.  Director Sheridan, as well as Daniel Day-Lewis, Pete Posthlewaite, and Emma Thompson all received Oscar nominations.

The Boxer (1997)

The third collaboration between Sheridan and Day-Lewis...and the third triumph; The Boxer humanizes the families and individuals living in Belfast during The Troubles better than any film I've seen.  Emily Watson is brilliant, as always.

In America (2002)

Heart wrenching and enthralling tale of an Irish immigrant family trying to make a life in Hell's Kitchen.  Despite several Oscar nominations, this excellent film has flown beneath the radar. 

Get Rich or Die Tryin' (2005)

Rapper 50 Cent stars as an inner city drug dealer who turns away from crime.

Brothers (2009)

A tragic love triangle begins when a husband goes missing in Afganistan; starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Natalie Portman, and Tobey Maguire

Dream House (2011)

A creepy thriller with plenty of star power: Daniel Craig, Rachel Weis, and Naomi Watts

The Secret Scripture (currently in pre-production): From the Sebastian Barry novel, the story of a woman's extended stay in a mental hospital

If you live in the NYC area, you have the opportunity to see a screening of In America, following a discussion with the director himself!  This event is organized by Wild Geese member, Niall McKay.  Find all the details here.