In America (2003)
Runtime: 1 hr 43 mins
Genre: Dramas
Starring: Paddy Considine, Samantha Morton, Djimon Hounsou, Sarah Bolger, Emma Bolger
Screenwriter: Naomi Sheridan, Kirsten Sheridan
Producer: Arthur Lappin, Jim Sheridan
Composer: Gavin Friday, Maurice Seezer
Buy It On DVD
Reviews
The movie lacks conviction from implausible beginning to sentimental end.
The result is a blend of kitchen-sink and magical realism: sentimental, but well acted and freshly observed.
A sappy, self-congratulatory tale of triumph of penniless newcomers over every sort of adversity, and a close brush with death every time they set foot outside of their apartment.
Lovingly shot, with a remarkable debut from Sarah Bolger, who along with sister Emma, gives one of the greatest ever child performances.
The pairing of two brilliant, loose-cannon actors gets the film a long way.
In America contains enough magic and sincerity to cover the proverbial multitude of cinematic sins.
Superbly evokes the depression, anxiety, joy, misery, and aggravation of family life.
A genuinely touching movie about a family that doesn't condescend to audiences or wrap its lessons into neat, tidy packages.
Sheridan should also be applauded for keeping the film going at a nice pace, sprinkling it with many lighter moments, as well as one of the more suspenseful scenes from any movie last year.
...a scrapbook of family history that has gained poignancy through the showing and telling but remains recognizably a family story rather than a myth or epic.
Sheridan stares the scary questions in the face, admits that he cannot answer all of them, and yet offers glimmers of hope and a generous helping of uplifting humor.
At its best, the movie has a supernal glow that you can practically warm your hands by.
The film's blend of heartbreak and hope is perhaps Sheridan’s greatest achievement, and it gives us a work that’s as lovable as it is challenging.
In America es, hasta el momento, la película más personal del realizador más importante que ha dado el cine de Irlanda en los últimos 15 años.
Two child actors provide the strongest sense of realty in a disjointed tearjerker, where there’s a disconnect between what is said and what is shown.
A saddening but simultaneously uplifting look at contemporary immigrants, “In America” is bound to make you shed a tear or two.
What could have been an exercise in saccharine schmaltz is saved by the powerful performances of the adults and natural energy of the girls.
A rock steady beauty of a picture, this is a delightful holiday film season surprise.
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