Rory O'Shea Was Here - 2004

Movie #124

5 stars

When Rory O'Shea (James McAvoy) moves into a home for the disabled with a diagnosis of muscular dystrophy and befriends a deeply bored young man with cerebral palsy (Steven Robertson), he infuses his pal's life with renewed hope, even as he struggles with his own demons. O'Shea refuses to surrender to the desperation of his life, choosing instead to embrace the potential in everyday opportunities.

Cast: James McAvoy, Steven Robertson, Romola Garai, Gerard McSorley, Tom Hickey, Brenda Fricker, Alan King, Ruth McCabe, Anna Healy, Sarah Jane Drummey

Director: Damien O'Donnell

Tagline: Live life like you mean it

Filming location: Dublin, Ireland

UK Film Title: Inside I'm Dancing (I guess I can see why the title was changed for the US Release...close-minded people would feel uncomfortable with this title)

This movie was incredible!!!! The acting was superb and the story was amazing. Not only was the story thought-provoking but it was also fun to watch. Yes, I know, when you are dealing with serious issues it is hard to make an enjoyable while still sending an effective message. The comic relief that both the script and acting skills provided made this a 5 star movie.

Even though James McAvoy did an awesome job, best actor goes to Steven Robertson. Once you watch the movie it will be evident.

When I was young I used to think The Cure was one of the my favorite life-changing movies...now it is Rory O'Shea Was Here.

How much more can I say? WATCH THIS MOVIE!!!!


Trivia:

• The original story was conceived by Irish writer Christian O'Reilly, inspired by his own experiences working at the Centre for Independent Living in Dublin where he worked closely with Dermot Walsh, a man who has cerebral palsy.
• James McAvoy would spend up to 12 hours a day in a wheelchair while filming.
  

If you are interested in this movie then watch it!...and then watch this special. If you aren't that interested then watch the special and you will surely want to watch the movie.