Review of Calvary (2014) by Kenr — 20 Nov 2021

Calvary – In Search of Innocence Lost.

British born writer/director John Michael McDonagh appears to be following the footsteps of Ingmar Bergman and the writings of the Greek classical age - with in-depth studies of the hopelessness and failings of the human condition to conquer its own weaknesses. If this is supposed to be black comedy then it’s the ‘comedy’ of chaos – offering very little, if anything, to feel humored about. Mostly, the audience is basically being manipulated to think and feel in a particular manner - through the actions of an endless parade of largely jaded, social misfits – many of who tend to come across as more willingly despicable, than deserving of much sympathy. Performances are uniformly good with Gleeson a standout as the local Catholic priest, offering genuine comfort to largely unreceptive parishioners. Location shooting is a highlight as is the varied music score and selected songs. But the downbeat ending casts an un-redeeming gloom on the overall proceedings. This is Greek tragedy Irish style, for those who can stay with the often sordid, heavy mood swings. The Dog is a nice touch but again, tends to serve simply as a device to elevate the tragedy into an audience’s memory. Very good looking with many interesting angles but offering little comfort, if not somewhat soul destroying.