Michael Inside

This movie hits all too close to home for me. I've seen people in situations quite similar to our protagonist, and this movie depicts it quite well. This is a well made film and conveys the emotions to the viewers exceptionally! Well worth a watch!

Good film, very well acted and shot. Completely captures what it is like to live on a council estate. You empathise with the characters, you get upset when they're upset, you are angry when they are angry; sure this is played up, but it is mostly reality. People like this do plod along, make mistakes and get themselves locked up. We understand this, we know of this. It isn't perfect; the ending montage is emotionally charged, although it does edge on the cheesy side, but it is a great effort.

Basic story with powerful performances by both the son and grandad highlighting the very real and unfortunate circle of life that many can get stuck in from a small mistake! Extremely moving and remarkable film given the unknown cast and small budget another great reason to support independent films.

I don't have the artsy vocabulary to describe how well made this movie is, but there's plenty of other reviewers who have. Every aspect pulled me into Michael's world and traumatised me. Most reviewers don't mention the casting, which was perfect. They cast the scumbags so brilliantly, by which I mean the detective-level Gardaí. This is part of what made the experience so profound. The reality of being pulled into Ireland's Criminal Justice System that ostensibly protects Humanity, but is devoid of it where it truly matters - i.e. when entering into someone's home and sanctuary or when a young offender actually has innocence and prospects. It's very well researched and acts as an exposé of this State's war against the poor.

I couldn't watch this in one sitting, but I couldn't help returning to it. Don't miss this.

Go see it. A great little Irish film. No big budget. No special effects. But a truly great true to life story with heart. I loved it. It left me thinking and asking questions long after it was over. An important film.