By Andrea K. Hammer
Dancing at Lughnasa, an under-the-radar drama from director Pat O’Connor, adds a missing piece to a major star’s rich repertoire. Just when you think that all of Meryl Streep‘s work is completely recognized, this hidden gem reveals her effort to blend in with a talented ensemble. Like a dancer with higher kicks in a chorus line, her star power glows with extra wattage even in one of her earlier dramas.
Stirring Drama Based on Internationally Acclaimed Play
With the aura of a well-scripted and -performed Broadway show, Dancing at Lughnasa is adapted by screenwriter Frank McGuinness from the internationally acclaimed play by Brian Friel. The drama grabs immediate interest with strong storytelling about five unmarried sisters in 1936 rural Ireland. During the Waltons-like narration (Gerald McSorley) from the perspective of sister Christina’s (Catherine McCormack) illegitimate son Michael (Darrell Johnston), a personal tone is set for this tale about women finding a way to survive despite disappointment and hardship.
Talented Actresses Convey Complex Relationships of Sisters in Ireland
As the eldest sister Kate, Meryl Streep shows the strain felt in trying to hold her sisters together. In every expressive shadow across her face and gestures with her hands, the actress registers her character’s alienating attempt to control her rebellious sisters.
Agnes (Brid Brennon) authentically conveys the strongest desire to break free from Kate’s stifling iron rule. Although anticipated, the final outcome with sister Rose (Sophie Thompson) comes as a heart-breaking shocker.
Like a dependable understudy, Kathy Burke shapes sister Maggie as the one who actually holds the family together during tumultuous moments. Her love of dance sparks one of the drama’s most uplifting scenes when even the generally rigid Kate finally cuts loose with feet flying off the floor. As the sisters find a brief escape from their troubles and tap into pure joy, their interlinked arms form a momentarily unbroken circle.
Gifted Actors Expand Free-Spirited Element in Film
Rhys Ifans plays Michael’s free-spirited father Gerry with perfectly pitched won’t-be-tied-down but still irresistibly likable spirit. His respectful relationship with the sister’s unsettled brother Jack (Michael Gambon) after his return from years of missionary work in Africa is particularly touching for its meet-you-where you-are lack of condescension.
Along with expansive views of Ireland‘s lush greenery from director of photography Kenneth MacMillan and stirring music by award-winning composer Bill Whelan (Riverdance), Dancing at Lughnasa is a rich film experience and welcome discovery.
