Review of Calvary (2014) by Walter M — 13 Aug 2014

"Calvary" starts with a parishioner of Father James'(Brendan Gleeson) calmly informing him that in one week he will kill him on a nearby beach. Along with this looming deadline, James also has parishioners to deal with like a love triangle between Jack(Chris O'Dowd), his wife Veronica(Orla O'Rourke) and Simon(Isaach de Bankole), a relative newcomer, that is turning violent. At least, James can find comfort in his daughter Fiona(Kelly Reilly, of the television series "Black Box") visiting after recovering from a suicide attempt.

As admirable as it is for a movie like "Calvary" that wastes no time in getting to the point, it is even better that it handles heady issues like faith so well. Overall, the movie takes issue with the Catholic Church, particularly in Ireland, having lost its moral authority and the resultant aftershocks. While exaggerated at times, this is still a potent brew, especially due to the excellent performance by Brendan Gleeson playing an intelligent complicated man who came to the priesthood late due to a personal tragedy and one who still wears the traditional cossack. All of which is not all doom and gloom, as the movie does display an occasional dry wit while referencing westerns with its central scenario and the odd musical cue. Plus, the movie's final shot does at least give some hope.