IFTA Best Film 2019 | Rosie

Image Credit: Alexas_Fotos

Directed by Paddy Breathnach

Rosie is both heartwarming and tragic, realistically depicting the homeless crisis in Ireland. The film follows Rosie, a young mother in Dublin who has become homeless because her landlord has decided to sell the home that she shared with her husband and four young kids.  

Over the day and a half we spend with the family, we learn how difficult it is to cope with the life-shattering event of losing your home, whilst also trying to keep up appearances. We watch as a family, who for personal reasons cannot rely on family members, are forced to turn to the council for help. We witness them move to a hotel, only to find that there is no room for children to play, or do school work. They're told to feel lucky that they are not on the streets but the upheaval and lack of any personal space or security affects the whole family. 

The story isn't filled with action or even a thrilling climax but still holds viewers attention throughout. This is mostly thanks to the wonderful acting particularly from Sarah Green (Rosie) who gives an emotional performance. The film highlights the desperate reality of people who through no fault of their own are made homeless every day in Ireland.

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