Pretty Good

Admirable film.

Pretty good movie overall. First half was nothing special but it got better as it went along.

Good films always raise compelling questions, whether the format is fiction or documentary fact.

The film in my opinion is a fantastic representation of a child's experience of the troubles in northern ireland. It is quite accurate.It could be classified as a comedy, but I would say it's more of a dark comedy because, while the kids are playful and goofy at times, as one would expect the setting is entirely depressing. The mothers' characters are unforeseen because they do not fall into normal Irish stereotypes. However, the father's characters are very stereotypically Irish, which was somewhat disappointing. Nevertheless, an important film to see.It is about the loss of innocence in a tragic environment and two friends trying to hold onto what little peace they have left.The editing and cinematography is at times lame, but at other times absolutely fantastic, especially the ending scenes -- pay attention because it is visually stunning.8/10 because, while the acting is good, at times the movie is a bit too ridiculous and it borderlines on slapstick, a poor choice for the director in my opinion.

I found this film excellent. It was entertaining, funny and sad.The story of two friends from different backgrounds is definitely nothing new, and I also don't think it was told in any specially new way. Nevertheless, the film had great energy and the world of the children - for whom the world of the adults can be one big playground - was pictured in a honest way.I enjoyed all the performances. Children playing the two main characters felt real in their hopes and fears. Jonjo reminded me of myself when I was a kid - had mad friends getting us in trouble when ever they could - so I really enjoyed his role.In my opinion adults in the movie were convincing, but again, I wouldn't be the right person judge the authenticity of their performances since I am not from the area.In spite of dealing with political issues I found this film non-political. It is a praise for friendship but thank God without Disney-like sentimentality - even if it is touching at times. In my opinion only notch there is the end bit where Jonjo sends the star back to Mickybo. It felt not only gushy but also calculated.However, it was an honest - and somehow real - move to let Mickybo turn against Jonjo in the end of the film.Thank you for film crew for one the best and touching friendship films there is!

It was really a big problem for me to understand the talking from the people in this film. English is English and Australians speak a special way. However I managed to understand the plot and follow through. It is a great story told in a very familiar way but very serious. The problems exposed are not being solved and catholic and protestant will continue to discuss them but this type of film serves to tell us what a waste of time, lives and resources is to continue with the religion kit. We are in 2006 and going to the moon, etc and still thinking that one way is better than the other.I will buy the DVD because I can have English substitles. Notwithstanding, it is a remarkable good film. GAP

To say that to watch this would give a reasonable insight as to what it is like being a Catholic in Northern Ireland, is like saying watch "Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid" to discover how life was in America at the turn of the 19th Century. This film was made for entertainment value only I believe. I do not believe that any hidden social statement was intended. The Protestant boy is portrayed typically as better off than his Catholic counterpart. Not always the case as anyone who knows anything about the warring ghetto factions in Northern Ireland will tell you. The film was full of clichés but highly enjoyable and cinematic. I don't know if has gone to DVD yet but is worth a viewing if it does. As for leaving the cinema, I hope you never go to see Home Alone !!