Though often difficult to watch due to its emotional gravity and convoluted character relations, The Irishman is certainly a must-see. Not only is the cast loaded with old favorites, like Robert De Niro, but the story itself is captivating.
Heart-wrenching throughout, the movie approaches a man’s tragic, self-initiated emotional-separation from his family with a surprisingly frank tone. Still the approach is oddly fitting. The story is the embodiment of both regret and acceptance of one’s past.
When Frank Sheeran, a 1950’s delivery man, falls into some legal trouble he accidentally gets caught up in the workings of the Italian Mob. But as the movie progresses, Frank’s original innocence is traded for something darker.
Life as a part of the mob is dramatic and luxurious. It comes at a price, though. Frank’s relationships with his wives (first and second), kids, and friends are quickly affected by his work and he struggles to draw the line between his crime and blood families. His relationship with his daughter Peggy is the manifestation of the consequences associated with his actions.
As Frank looks back in his old age he must come to terms with his decisions, wrong and right, mending where he can and moving forward where he cannot.
The Irishman is a potent reminder of the permanent nature of our actions; the unforgiving cause and effect cycle that ensues with each decision we make. It’s a warning to choose wisely, which I think is of grave importance at such a pivotal time in our lives.
So the next time you have three hours to spare and can’t stand another run of the office, I recommend The Irishman.
