This first feature film by Irish filmmaker Colm Bairéad is one of those more discreet works, which distill their subject in a quiet way, like the young heroine around whom the story is built. If the intrinsic qualities of The Quiet Girl are undeniable, we are still surprised by its presence at the Oscars among the five finalists in the category of best international film. Especially since strong candidates like Saint Omer, Decision to Leave, Bodice Or Return to Seoul were left on the sidelines.
Filmed primarily in the Irish language, the drama begins with a visually stunning shot, where we see the 9-year-old protagonist, named Cáit (Catherine Clinch), lying in a field, ignoring the insistent calls her mother makes in the distance. . Neglected by the latter, practically invisible in the household and in the eyes of her father, Cáit is invited by an aunt (Carrie Crowley) to stay with her and her husband (Andrew Bennett) during the summer season in their farm located three hours on the road.
Kind of learning story, The Quiet Girl, inspired by a short story by Claire Keegan, is based on many things left unsaid, the hosts proving to be as “quiet” in their attitude as their young niece. The latter will however very quickly understand her role. Totally devoid of dramatic effects, this story of an absence to fill has nothing really original, but Colm Bairéad relies mainly on the impressionist character of the story to draw a subtle and delicate portrait. The young Catherine Clinch also offers an excellent performance, all imprinted with interiority, favoring a naturalistic style whose slightest modulations are captured by an attentive camera.
Winner of the Best Film award in the Generation KPlus section at the Berlinale last year, The Quiet Girl is showing in the original Irish version with English subtitles.
Drama
The Quiet Girl
Colm Bairead
Starring Carrie Crowley, Andrew Bennett, Catherine Clinch
1:38
Indoors