Angela's Ashes

Starring: Emily Watson, Robert Carlyle
Directed by: Alan Parker
Rating: R
Genre: Drama
1999

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: Young Frank McCourt grew up poor in both America and in Ireland. His mother (Emily Watson) does her best to shallow her pride to accept handouts so she can feed her children. His occasionally working father (Robert Carlyle) is more prone to spend his wages on drinks than on food for the family. McCourt grows up in this environment, battling poverty, death, and Irish family. Based on a memoir by Frank McCourt.

Review:

Tim: Angela's Ashes is based on a terrific book by Frank McCourt. I try not to read books that are made into movies before I see the movie, but I slipped up on this one. I have occasionally mentioned that I can't stand people that say, "The book is so much better!" However, in this case, I am guilty of such a crime. I hate to be that guy, but McCourt's book works on levels this movie couldn't dream of reaching. Luckily, I am not alone in my opinion of this, as many have agreed with me. I recommend watching this film and then picking up McCourt's unbelievably excellent book.

This is a depressing and often heartwrenching film that is difficult to watch at times. McCourt grew up in terrible conditions and this film focuses on that rather than on the happier moments. The film is also an excellent story of a family struggling to stay afloat against a sea of poverty. In another aspect, the movie portrays young Frank's journey from childhood into young adulthood.

The actors in the film all do a good job. Robert Carlyle is very serious and sad. Emily Watson is the epitome of strength and silent suffering as was a good choice for Angela.

The biggest disappointment in the film Angela's Ashes is the lack of humor that makes McCourt's book so enjoyable. While reading it, I oftentimes laughed out loud and had to stop and reread lines so I could laugh some more. Alan Parker sucks all the humor out of the tale and tells pretty much a straightforward (long) depressing tale.

Angela's Ashes is still a pretty good film, if just because its source material is so excellent. I recommend seeing the film first and then expanding on that with the amazing book.



Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 7



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend:
The Commitments, Punch Drunk Love, Formula 51, Angela's Ashes (the book)