Written and directed by Pat Collins, co-written by Eamon Little, Joe and Kate Ruttledge have returned from London to live and work among a small, rural, lakeside community in Ireland near to where Joe grew up. Now deeply embedded in the life around the lake, the drama of a year in their lives and those of the memorable characters that move about them unfolds through the rituals of work, play and the passing seasons. Starring: Barry Ward, Anna Bederke, Ruth McCabe, Lalor Roddy, Sean McGinley, Phillip Dolan, John Olohan and Brendan Conroy.
From the very beginning, That They May Face the Rising Sun holds a simple, loving and wholesome atmosphere which deepens as the film progresses. It’s rare these days that a film takes it back to basics and just basks in the everyday, finding the beauty in the modesty. In that sense, for anyone without patience, it won’t work but for those who can enjoy the journey without a definitive destination, it’s surprisingly moving.
It’s also genuinely funny, with that classic Irish sarcasm and blunt talking old-men, who have no filters but are all somewhat broken. That’s what’s fascinating, within its simplicity is generations of trauma and a warped, unhealthy perspective when it comes to the ideas of happiness and contentment, adding these heart-wrenching waves of sadness. It would pair magnificently with 2022’s The Quiet Girl.
Working within that humble yet emotional arena is something that’s always going to be perfectly complimented by a picturesque setting and that’s exactly what you get with That They May Face the Rising Sun. The lakeside location is absolutely stunning and adds these wide, rolling visuals which are beautiful. It’s the ideal partner to the film’s exploration of life and death, there’s a wonderful depth to it, the aesthetic and feel organically reflect the emotions and themes of the story.
Having said that, it never wades into overtly heavy territory because it’s filled with these big, charming personalities. Barry Ward and Anna Bederke present a compassionate gateway into this community, serving as thoughtful guides through the local eccentricities. The first of which being Lalor Roddy’s Patrick, he’s as straight-talking as you get but filled with classic denial and repression, quick to push people away.
Whereas Phillip Dolan’s Jamesie is so friendly and warm, and Brendan Conroy’s Bill is shy and delicate, which is both heart-breaking and sweet. Then there’s Sean McGinley’s Johnny, bringing possibly the most memorable performance of the film, with this intensely vulnerable moment which is expertly delivered and he gives a remarkably touching portrayal.
That They May Face the Rising Sun is quietly affecting, funny and filled with a stunningly subtle exploration of life’s hardships. Loch Na Fooey makes for a gorgeous backdrop, allowing the film to have this enthralling depth while holding onto its humble grace. It’s both simple and complex, it’s a film for those with the patience to appreciate its slowly unfolding layers as you’re welcomed into this endearing community, filled with delightful characters, who are brought to life by a pitch perfect cast.
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