With so many new horror films coming out in the next few months, such as The Forest or The Green Inferno, those of us who do not enjoy those kinds of movies may feel the choices are limited on movie/date night. However, a film that has aired a few months ago may be the one to consider if you are not a fan of being scared out of your wits. This movie is called Brooklyn.

The movie illustrates the life of an Irish girl named Eilis Lacey and her journey to America. The movie touches upon the trials of expectation, change, love, and responsibility, along with highlighting the struggles of immigrants from every nation, though covering mostly the cultures and struggles of those coming from Ireland at the time of the 1950s.

The storyline was interesting and at times light, allowing the audience a moment of fresh air before plunging back into the heavy topics interlaced within the plot. It shows a realistic relationship but also has a tone of new love and the urgency it seems to bring.

The cast played their parts beautifully, Saoirse Ronan showing her characters indecisive nature and her slight discomfort in her new environment perfectly, while also showing her maturity as the film progresses. Emory Cohen plays his role as the kind, carefree, and understanding love interest of Eilis extremely well. He shows his development and his shift into maturity alongside Eilis wonderfully.

The director, John Crowley, orchestrated the story artfully. His directions were clear in the set, costumes, and acting done within the film, which helped aid the messenges of the story, such as “home is where you feel loved and welcome, not where you were born or raised.”

The cinematography was wonderful, showing Ireland at times in a more mute, muddled light to show Eilis’s familiarity with the area versus New York’s vibrant color in which she has no idea how to navigate. This helps show Eilis’s overwhelmed feeling in America and her slight boredom in Ireland, that also enhances her character.

The film itself is heart wrenching, twist filled, and inspiring. With a fantastic cast, great message, and incredible acting, this movie deserves to be seen.