Experience the Enchantment of Ireland Through These Captivating Films

Immerse yourself in the magical realm of Ireland, the Emerald Isle, known for leprechauns, Guinness, and a myriad of wonders. In honor of this captivating country, explore the best films set in Ireland that have captured stunning scenes over the years. Here's a curated list of the finest movies that transport you to the enchanting landscapes of Ireland. Discover the cinematic beauty that unfolds within the lush settings of the Emerald Isle. Dive into the rich tapestry of Irish culture and landscapes through these must-watch films! 👇

Waking Ned Devine' (1998)

IMDb: 7.3

'Waking Ned Devine,' one of Ireland's farcical gems, kicks off with the elderly Ned Devine winning the national lottery in a small Irish village. However, Ned passes away immediately after. Eager to share the substantial fortune, the other two elderly men dive into intrigues to claim Ned's winnings. It's worth knowing that Ned is deceased, yet they persist in their schemes. As lottery officials are about to verify the prize claimed by the late Devine, Ned's closest friends devise a plan to keep the prize money at home in his memory, of course! However, as events unfold humorously, they learn just how challenging it is to keep such a significant secret in a small town.

'Ryan’s Daughter' (1970)

IMDb: 7.4

The backdrop of World War I seems distant in the Irish Dingle Peninsula, especially when Rosy Ryan Shaughnessy embarks on a horseback ride with a young English officer on the beach. That day marks a significant shift for Rosy, who tends to her father's pub, working behind the bar for the first time since marrying the village schoolteacher. A stormy night brings some Irish revolutionaries to Ryan's pub, awaiting a weapons shipment. Is Rosy betraying them to the English? Will Shaughnessy heed the advice of Father Collins? The central character, a village fool who is mute, plays a crucial role.

'The Secret of Kells' (2009)

IMDb: 7.5

Young Brendan resides in a medieval outpost exposed to barbarian attacks. However, a renowned illuminator from the island of Iona arrives to add color to this mundane life. Carrying an ancient and incomplete book, the master brings mysterious wisdom and powers. To complete the magical book, Brendan embarks on a perilous adventure, confronting his deepest fears. This journey leads him to a magical forest where he encounters Aisling, a mysterious young wolf girl who aids him. Yet, barbarians pursue them, testing whether Brendan's determination and artistic vision can prove that enlightenment is the best defense against darkness.

'Brooklyn' (2015)

IMDb: 7.5

Saoirse Ronan, usually tasked with concealing her Irish accent, takes a departure from this norm in the film 'Brooklyn.' The movie, a period piece, narrates the journey of a young woman leaving her native Ireland for Brooklyn, New York. Although the story doesn't entirely unfold in Ireland, a significant portion is set in the country. Considered one of Stanley Kubrick's masterpieces alongside 'Barry Lyndon,' 'Brooklyn' earned Saoirse Ronan three Oscar nominations for her performance.

'The Commitments' (1991)

IMDb: 7.6

'The Commitments' is a bit of a cult classic. The film tells the story of working-class Dubliners forming a soul band. A comedic, music-filled, and occasionally dramatic movie, it follows the tumultuous rise and fall of a group of Dublin Soul musicians led by Jimmy Rabbitte. Jimmy, an unemployed entrepreneur, operates with the vision of creating the 'Hardest Working Band in the World.' Apart from being beloved by loyal viewers, 'The Commitments' achieved triple-platinum status with its successful music.

'The Long Good Friday' (1980)

IMDb: 7.6

Harold (Bob Hoskins), a successful British mafia leader, is on the verge of completing a lucrative new deal when bombs start appearing in highly inconvenient places. A mysterious union is eyeing his business, and Harold wants to know who they are. He quickly finds out, sparking a bloody chaos. Bob Hoskins delivered one of his best performances in this classic British mafia film, preceding his role in 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit' and before his unfortunate portrayal of Mario in the Super Mario movie.

'The Quiet Man' (1952)

IMDb: 7.7

Sean Thornton returns from America to reclaim his former estate, attempting to escape his past. He is captivated by the beautiful yet poor young woman, Mary Kate Danaher, who is also the feisty sister of the brash 'Red' Will Danaher. The colorful relationship between Sean and Mary Kate unfolds, completing Will's brawling efforts to keep them apart. The events intertwine Sean's past in a darkly compelling way.

'My Left Foot' (1989)

IMDb: 7.8

Born into a large and impoverished Irish family with cerebral palsy, Christy Brown's intellect and humanity are recognized by his mother, Mrs. Brown. Daniel Day-Lewis portrays Christy, a cantankerous artist using his dexterous left foot to write and paint. Day-Lewis won an Oscar for his role, and he wasn't the only one recognized in the film. Brenda Fricker also won an Oscar for her portrayal of Brown's mother.

'Barry Lyndon' (1975)

IMDb: 8.1

Stanley Kubrick doesn't make it easy for himself or anyone working with him. 'Barry Lyndon' is 187 minutes long and mostly shot using natural light. Despite not achieving financial success, the film, adapted from William Makepeace Thackeray's novel, is considered a critical success. 'Barry Lyndon' is acknowledged as one of Kubrick's masterpieces.

'In the Name of the Father' (1993)

IMDb: 8.1

Gerry Conlon is accused of involvement in an incident in London he had nothing to do with. Despite being a model citizen, Gerry confesses to a minor robbery but claims innocence in the 1974 Guildford Pub bombing. He insists his coerced guilty statement was forced. Alongside Joe McAndrew taking responsibility for the attack, Gerry, along with seven other family members, is implicated in assisting the Maguire Seven. Gerry, spurred by his father Giuseppe's campaign, tries to prove their innocence, aided by the empathetic lawyer Gareth Peirce. However, they face obstacles, including Dixon.