Amongst the Wolves

I've just seen this film in the cinema and it's one of the best indie films I've seen in 2025. It caught be off guard as I was not expecting it to be so powerful. The cinematography was breathtaking and really helped in showing the character's depths through certain frames and omissions. The directing by Mark O'Connor and acting were stellar, making it easy to be invested in Danny's story and his relationship with Will especially. It touches on important themes and is essentially a story about profound loss and represents a side of Dublin that often does not get represented. It's interesting how many different genres this film blends - thriller, family drama, action - and manages to switch between them to take an aspect from each one to make them all work together. Everyone should watch this film if they get a chance!

Amongst the Wolves is a gut-punch of an Irish thriller that doesn't hold back. Luke McQuillan is straight-up incredible as Danny, a homeless ex-soldier battling PTSD and his demons on Dublin's rough streets. His quiet intensity carries the whole film-every glance and move feels so real. The story hooks you when Danny connects with Will, a teenager (Daniel Fee) tangled up with a brutal drug gang led by Power, played by Aidan Gillen, who's as chilling as you'd expect.

The film's raw and grounded, with Dublin's gritty corners practically a character on their own. The cinematography's stark, and the sparse soundtrack lets the emotions breathe. Yeah, it hits a few familiar crime drama notes, and the ending wraps up a bit too quick, but man, it's intense and gripping. McQuillan's performance is the heart of it-you feel his pain and fight. If you're into hard-hitting, character-driven stories that dive into the dark side without flinching, this one's a must. Really stuck with me. 8/10.

This Irish film genuinely took me by surprise - a compelling and emotionally rich story that had me hooked from the opening scenes. The performances were incredibly authentic, especially from the lead, who brought real depth to the character. The film's mood is haunting in the best way, lingering in your mind long after the credits roll. Visually, it's stunning - the direction and cinematography really highlight both the rugged beauty and underlying tension of the environment. What stood out most was its honest portrayal of working-class life, something rarely explored with such sensitivity and realism in modern cinema. The cast is outstanding, and it was a real treat to see John Boy from Love/Hate in a role like this. Absolutely worth watching - a standout Irish drama that deserves more attention.

Excellent movie. A gripping Irish crime thriller which had me on the edge of my seat from the beginning to the end! Great performance from Aidan Gillen as always. It was also refreshing to see some newer Irish talent on screen - overall a very well cast movie. The story line was powerful with some interesting twists. While the movie is packed with intense, action packed moments, it also features raw, emotionally charged performances that give the story real heart and depth. My favourite Irish movie in a long time! Particularly loved that it was filmed around Dublin. Would highly recommend giving it a watch.

"Amongst the Wolves" is an Irish revenge thriller crossed with a heart felt character study. Danny, a homeless ex-soldier, grapples with past trauma and PTSD on the mean streets of Dublin. Danny takes Will, a troubled young man under his wing. Will is harassed by a drug gang. Danny will face off against the gang, where his deadly soldier skills will come into play.

Director Mark O'Connor, already delivered one classic Irish gangster film in "Cardboard Gangsters". He's done it again with this film.

"Amongst the Wolves" is an excellent Irish revenge thriller crossed with a heart felt character study. I strongly recommend it.