Improve your Irish English with these 6 movies
Understanding a new language, accent or dialect in a country that you just moved into can take quite some time. Movies and shows are an excellent way to learn English and since it is a tested method by BTS’ RM, it’s safe to say we trust it as well.
If you are someone who is trying to learn Irish English, worry not! We are here with a list of Irish films which will help you improve your command over the language within a short period of time.
Six movies to help you learn Irish English
The Commitments (1991)
We cannot have a list dedicated to Irish English films and not mention the iconic 1991 release, The Commitments. This film narrates the story of a young lad with a passion for music and is set on the Northside of Dublin. The movie also captures Dublin and its essence in the most intriguing way and that is enough reason to at least watch it once. The Commitments is directed by Alan Parker and stars actors like Robert Arkins, Andrew Strong, and Angeline Ball, in key roles.
The Snapper (1993)
The Snapper is another entertaining watch from the early 1990s and since the film is set in Ireland, it features quite a bit of Irish English. The film was aired on television in 1993 and that’s probably the reason it is so difficult to find online. The story revolves around a 20-year-old who is raised in a devout Roman Catholic house. So when she gets pregnant and reveals the name of the father of her child, it unleashes total chaos in her life. This one, you will have fun watching!
Adam & Paul (2004)
If comedy is what gets your attention, this one is it. Adam and Paul is about two young drug addicts living on the streets of Dublin and their unique yet hilarious adventures as they set out to score some heroin. The main characters in the film speak proper Irish English and the perfect use of Irish humour is such a cherry on the top. The film will also help you learn so much more about Dublin city and stars actors Mark O’Halloran and Tom Murphy in the lead roles.
Wild Mountain Thyme (2020)
Wild Mountain Thyme is a John Patrick Shanley directorial which stars Hollywood biggies like Emily Blunt and Jamie Dornan in the lead role. The film is set in county Mayo and tells the story of two neighbours who end up falling in love with each other. The acting is spot on and you are sure to enjoy the drama and romance. You will also learn some Irish English along the way!
The Devil’s Own (1997)
The Devil’s Own is a 1997 hit which stars Brad Pitt, Harrison Ford, and Margaret Colin in key roles. The film is about a visiting Irishman and his stay with an NYC policeman. The situation escalates when the officer realises that the Irishman is in reality, a notorious IRA member. Critics are not a fan of Brad Pitt’s accent in the film but it is a great movie to understand more of Irish English. Entertaining, interesting, and has Brad Pitt, we call that a must-watch.
Michael Collins (1996)
Who doesn’t know of Michael Collins? His story is a familiar one and actors like Liam Neeson and Julia Roberts make the movie worth it. The film has been called out in the past for cutting out many scenes of bloodshed and atrocity to cater to a larger audience but despite that, it has gotten plenty of positive reviews. The film was directed by Neil Jordan and will teach you a lot about the Irish Civil War.
Hope you have a great watch! For more on movie and Irish culture, hop on to Babylon!
