Small Things Like These is a captivating 2024 drama film that explores the depths of human emotions, personal morality, and the devastating impact of secrets. Directed by Tim Mielants, this film is a historical drama set in 1985, where the protagonist, Bill Furlong, is forced to confront both the external and internal struggles that ultimately change the course of his life. With a solid IMDb rating of 7.3/10, the film promises an engaging and thought-provoking journey through the hidden corners of human experiences.

One of the most compelling aspects of Small Things Like These is its gripping story, where Bill, a devoted father, unravels shocking truths about his local convent while also confronting uncomfortable revelations about his own past. The movie’s blend of drama and history creates a powerful atmosphere that hooks viewers from start to finish. This review takes an in-depth look at the story, performances, direction, and technical elements of the film, offering an all-encompassing critique.

Plot Overview

Set in 1985, Small Things Like These follows Bill Furlong, a respectable and hard-working father who is dedicated to providing for his family in a small, rural town. Bill is a coal merchant who lives a simple life, focused on his wife and children. However, when he discovers unsettling secrets tied to the local convent, Bill’s life takes a drastic turn. As he uncovers deeply disturbing truths about the convent’s operations, he begins to question his own moral compass and the integrity of those around him.

The film expertly combines suspense with character study, delving into the moral dilemmas faced by Bill as he grapples with his loyalty to his community versus the haunting reality he uncovers. Bill’s journey is not just one of uncovering external secrets but also of facing the uncomfortable truths buried within himself. The weight of these realizations ultimately forces Bill to make life-changing decisions that challenge his own values and the future of his family.

Characters and Performances

Cillian Murphy as Bill Furlong

Cillian Murphy’s performance as Bill Furlong is undoubtedly the cornerstone of Small Things Like These. Known for his versatile acting in both dramatic and action-packed roles, Murphy brings a sense of depth and vulnerability to his portrayal of Bill. His nuanced approach to the character’s internal conflict adds layers of complexity to the film. As Bill, Murphy brilliantly balances the portrayal of a loving father with the turmoil of uncovering dark secrets, bringing emotional authenticity to every scene.

The character of Bill Furlong is one that requires a delicate balance of strength and sensitivity, and Murphy excels in this role. From the quiet moments of contemplation to the intense emotional outbursts, his performance is both compelling and heart-wrenching. It’s clear that Murphy deeply connects with the material, which makes Bill’s personal journey both relatable and tragic.

Patrick Ryan as Young Bill

Patrick Ryan portrays a younger version of Bill, which adds a significant dimension to the character’s backstory. Ryan brings a fresh perspective to Bill’s younger years, capturing the essence of his innocence and the simplicity of life before the harsh revelations. Ryan’s portrayal complements Murphy’s performance, providing a seamless transition from Bill’s youth to his adult struggles.

Peter Claffey as Father John

Peter Claffey plays Father John, a key figure in the local convent who plays a pivotal role in the development of the story. As Bill begins to unravel the secrets surrounding the convent, Father John’s involvement becomes central to the narrative. Claffey’s performance adds an air of mystery and tension to the film, as he portrays a character whose motives are unclear, leaving the audience questioning his integrity and involvement in the sinister happenings.

Direction by Tim Mielants

Tim Mielants’ direction of Small Things Like These is masterful, blending suspense with deep emotional storytelling. Mielants’ ability to build tension while still focusing on the human elements of the story is a testament to his skill as a director. Throughout the film, Mielants keeps the pacing tight, ensuring that every moment, no matter how small, serves to build toward the emotional and narrative climax.

The historical context is also well-handled. Mielants doesn’t overemphasize the period setting but subtly weaves it into the fabric of the story. The 1985 backdrop serves as a fitting period for the film, capturing the cultural and societal influences of the time. The direction also highlights the dichotomy between Bill’s seemingly quiet, ordinary life and the sinister secrets lurking beneath the surface.

Cinematography and Visuals

The film is shot in an HDCAM 720p quality, offering viewers a visually rich experience. The cinematography effectively captures the mood of the film, enhancing the emotional weight of the narrative. The rural setting, with its rolling hills and small-town streets, serves as a perfect contrast to the dark secrets that Bill uncovers. The muted color palette used throughout the film adds to the somber tone, with shots of the convent and surrounding areas evoking a sense of foreboding.

One standout moment in the cinematography is the way the camera lingers on Bill’s expressions, particularly during moments of realization or emotional conflict. These close-up shots allow the audience to connect with the character on a deeper level, making the emotional weight of his journey feel all the more palpable.

Music and Soundtrack

The film’s soundtrack, while subtle, complements the tone of the story effectively. The music enhances key moments, adding an additional layer of emotional depth to the scenes. The sound design is also noteworthy, with ambient sounds subtly adding to the atmosphere, especially during scenes that take place in the convent. The tension is often amplified by the silence, forcing the audience to focus on the characters’ actions and expressions.

Themes and Symbolism

Small Things Like These explores a range of deep and thought-provoking themes, including:

Moral Conflict

The central theme of the film is Bill’s internal moral struggle. As he uncovers disturbing truths, Bill is forced to confront difficult questions about right and wrong, loyalty, and personal responsibility. The film doesn’t offer easy answers, allowing the audience to draw their own conclusions about what Bill’s choices ultimately mean.

The Power of Secrets

Secrets are a major theme throughout the film. The convent hides its darkest truths, and these secrets weigh heavily on the lives of everyone involved. The idea that small, seemingly insignificant actions can lead to devastating consequences is explored throughout Bill’s journey.

Family and Sacrifice

Bill’s devotion to his family is a driving force in the film. His desire to protect his family from the truth, while still doing the right thing, creates a poignant tension. The theme of sacrifice is also explored, with Bill having to make difficult choices that affect the future of his loved ones.

The Past and Its Impact on the Present

The film’s historical setting plays a key role in its exploration of the past’s impact on the present. Bill’s past, both personal and familial, becomes intertwined with the secrets he uncovers. The past is never truly gone, and its ghosts continue to haunt Bill as he makes his way through the present.

Final Thoughts

Small Things Like These is a powerful film that explores the complexities of human morality, the weight of secrets, and the emotional turmoil of facing uncomfortable truths. With its exceptional performances, particularly by Cillian Murphy, and a direction that masterfully builds tension, the film offers a compelling narrative that keeps the audience engaged until the very end.

While the HDCAM 720p quality might not be as sharp as higher resolutions, it doesn’t detract from the film’s emotional resonance or storytelling. The subtle historical context, combined with the personal drama of Bill Furlong’s journey, makes Small Things Like These a film worth watching for those who appreciate character-driven stories with deep emotional undercurrents.

For viewers looking for a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition and the impact of secrets on both personal and societal levels, Small Things Like These is a must-watch. The movie’s powerful themes, strong performances, and expert direction ensure that it will stay with you long after the credits roll.