So after a long spell with out the wonders of technology, I am back. Thanks to the new laptop I can finally write about all the great movies I've been watching lately.
I'm going to start not with a film but rather several that feature the beautiful Irish actress Saoirse Ronan. She has been on my radar for several pictures but the last few I've seen her in were as excellent in their entirety as she is an actress in them.
The first film that I noticed her in (and most American viewers as well) was the stunning 2007 film Atonement. Although her character is not the one you root for, it was her eyes and the haunting way she communicated through them that made me take notice of her.
Then as Susie Salmon in 2009's The Lovely Bones she was completely absorbing. Between her and the intensely creepy portrayal of George Harvey by Stanley Tucci the movie left me completely wowed. From start to finish, they and the other supporting roles played by Mark Wahlberg and Rachel Weisz, had me hooked. It was a nice adaptation of the book as well which is a rarity it seems these days.
The next film and one of my current favorite in the action/mystery genre was Hanna. Starring in the title role, Saoirse was again completely believable. Though she is tough and plays off of both Cate Blachett and Eric Bana exceedingly well, it was the touching scene with Jessica Barden as Sophie that took me in. The shots were elegant and so quiet that they instantly transported me back to those awkward but beautiful first moments of youthful intimacy.
Finally, a movie I have seen three times now is The Way Back. As Irena, she breathed fresh air into this film. The harsh but beautiful surroundings provided a stark reality to this true story based on the amazing 4,000 journey of men who escaped from a Siberian gulag. With all the dark, dirty men and terrible conditions in the beginning, the entrance of Irena brightened the mood, if only for a bit. A wonderful film for not only the writing but the sheer beauty and remoteness of the shooting locations it is one not to miss.
Bottom Line: Saoirse Ronan is definitely a girl to watch in the upcoming years. With her beauty, keen acting talents, and excellent choices in roles she will be holding Oscar gold before too long.
