Cast
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Samantha Morton
as Sarah
Paddy Considine
as Johnny
Sarah Bolger
as Christy
Emma Bolger
as Ariel
Djimon Hounsou
as Mateo
David Wike
as Barker
Michael Sean Tighe
as Frank
Juan Carlos Hernández
as Papo
René Millan
as Steve
Nick Dunning
as Gynaecologist
Frank Wood
as Paediatrician
Merrina Millsapp
as Marina
Bernadette Quigley
as Hospital Administrator
Adrian Martinez
as Shopkeeper
Des Bishop
as Stockbroker in Taxi
Crew
Director
- Jim Sheridan
Producer
- Arthur Lappin
- Jim Sheridan
Reviews
Wuchak
_**An Irish family adjusts to life in Hell’s Kitchen**_
Grieving the loss of a son, a family of Irish immigrants struggles to make it in an old apartment building in Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan. Paddy Considine & Samantha Morton play the parents while Djimon Hounsou plays a loner artist in the complex.
"In America" (2002) is a decent drama about adapting to life in the grungy Big Apple. Morton’s beauty is notable early on, despite her odd haircut, but most of the movie she’s pregnant. Meanwhile Sarah Bolger is smashing as daughter Christy, who narrates the story. Sarah would grow up to be a ravishing celestial woman.
You can tell the story is semi-autobiographical by director/writer Jim Sheridan and his daughters, Naomi and Kirsten. A lot of the drama works, but some of it had kinks that needed worked out. This left me with a “Meh” impression. But enough of it works for those interested. One thing’s for sure, life in the Big City isn’t painted as remotely attractive. I’m assuming the father made the radical move to fulfill his dream in acting.
The movie runs 1 hour, 44 minutes and was shot in Dublin, Ireland, with studio stuff done in Ardmore Studios, and some shots of Manhattan & points nearby.
GRADE: C+
Dec 11, 2020
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, In America examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Jim Sheridan brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2003, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of In America took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 105 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 162 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 2195 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2003, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While In America shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Two Irenes, which focuses more on action than character development, In America offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like London and Cocktail explore similar territory, In America stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 31, 2003
- Runtime: 1h 45m
