“Small Things Like These” is best watched with an open heart and a discerning eye, allowing its understated beauty to gradually unfold. Embrace the film’s deliberate pacing and focus on the nuanced performances to truly appreciate its profound message about personal responsibility and the courage to confront societal complicity.
Understanding the Nuances of a Powerful Film
“Small Things Like These,” based on the novel by Claire Keegan, is more than just a period drama; it’s a quiet exploration of conscience, community, and the insidious nature of systemic abuse. Set in 1985 Ireland, during the harrowing era of the Magdalene Laundries, the film follows Bill Furlong, a coal merchant, as he grapples with a moral dilemma that forces him to confront his own past and the silence that has allowed such institutions to thrive.
While the plot may seem simple on the surface, the film’s strength lies in its subtle cues, its carefully crafted atmosphere, and the powerful performances of its cast, particularly Cillian Murphy as Bill Furlong. To truly appreciate “Small Things Like These,” one needs to engage actively with the film, paying attention not just to what is said, but to what remains unspoken. This necessitates a viewing experience that prioritizes focus and reflection.
Approaching the Viewing Experience
Forget the impulse for immediate gratification. “Small Things Like These” is not a film that will bombard you with spectacle or shock. Instead, it invites you to slow down, to observe, and to empathize.
- Minimize distractions: Find a quiet environment where you can fully immerse yourself in the film’s world. Turn off your phone, silence notifications, and let the story unfold without interruption.
- Pay attention to visual cues: The film’s cinematography is deliberately muted, reflecting the emotional landscape of the characters. Notice the use of light and shadow, the composition of scenes, and the subtle expressions on the actors’ faces.
- Listen carefully to the dialogue: While much of the film’s power lies in its silences, the dialogue is carefully crafted to reveal character and advance the plot. Pay attention to the nuances of language and the subtext beneath the surface.
- Reflect on the historical context: Understanding the history of the Magdalene Laundries is crucial to appreciating the film’s themes. Researching this dark chapter in Irish history will deepen your understanding of the characters’ motivations and the societal forces at play.
- Engage with the film’s themes: “Small Things Like These” raises profound questions about personal responsibility, the power of silence, and the importance of empathy. After watching the film, take time to reflect on these themes and consider their relevance to your own life.
The Significance of Subtlety and Silence
One of the most striking aspects of “Small Things Like These” is its reliance on subtlety and silence. The film doesn’t explicitly condemn the Magdalene Laundries or preach about morality. Instead, it allows the story to unfold gradually, revealing the horrors of the system through subtle cues and unspoken truths.
This approach can be challenging for viewers accustomed to more explicit storytelling, but it’s essential to understanding the film’s power. The silence of the community, the hushed whispers, and the averted gazes all speak volumes about the complicity that allowed the Magdalene Laundries to thrive.
Analyzing Furlong’s Journey
Bill Furlong’s journey is the heart of the film. He’s not a hero in the traditional sense; he’s an ordinary man grappling with an extraordinary moral dilemma. His past, marked by his own experience as a child born outside of wedlock and raised with kindness, shapes his empathy and makes him question the prevailing silence surrounding the Laundry.
- Observe his interactions with others: Pay attention to how Furlong interacts with his wife, his children, and the people in his community. These interactions reveal his character and his values.
- Notice his internal struggles: Furlong’s internal struggles are often conveyed through subtle expressions and gestures. Pay attention to these cues to understand his emotional journey.
- Consider his final decision: Furlong’s decision to act, to defy the community’s silence, is a powerful moment of moral courage. Reflect on the significance of this decision and its potential impact.
Decoding the Symbolism
“Small Things Like These” is rich in symbolism, which adds layers of meaning to the film.
Key Symbolic Elements
- The Coal: The coal that Bill Furlong delivers throughout the film symbolizes warmth, comfort, and the necessities of life. It also represents the burden of societal expectations and the cost of complicity.
- The Laundry: The Magdalene Laundry itself is a symbol of oppression, silence, and the exploitation of vulnerable women.
- The Christmas Season: The film’s setting during the Christmas season creates a powerful contrast between the joyous celebration of the holiday and the harsh realities of the Magdalene Laundry.
By paying attention to these symbolic elements, viewers can gain a deeper understanding of the film’s themes and its message.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Watching “Small Things Like These”
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you get the most out of your viewing experience:
H3: 1. What are the Magdalene Laundries, and why are they important to the story?
The Magdalene Laundries were institutions in Ireland, run by Catholic religious orders, that operated from the 18th century to 1996. They incarcerated women deemed “fallen” or “immoral,” often for reasons like being unmarried mothers or victims of sexual abuse. Understanding their history is crucial because they represent the societal hypocrisy and religious control “Small Things Like These” critiques.
H3: 2. Why is the film’s pacing so slow?
The deliberate pacing is intentional, allowing viewers to absorb the atmosphere of the time and the weight of the characters’ decisions. It mirrors the slow, insidious nature of societal complicity and the gradual awakening of Furlong’s conscience. The slowness allows for reflection and a deeper engagement with the themes.
H3: 3. What does Cillian Murphy bring to the role of Bill Furlong?
Cillian Murphy delivers a masterclass in understated acting. He portrays Furlong’s internal struggles with subtlety and nuance, conveying a sense of quiet determination and empathy. His performance grounds the film in realism and allows viewers to connect with Furlong’s moral journey.
H3: 4. Is it necessary to know the book to understand the film?
While reading Claire Keegan’s novella can enhance your appreciation of the film, it’s not essential. The film stands on its own, effectively conveying the story and its themes. However, the book offers additional context and character development.
H3: 5. What are the key themes explored in “Small Things Like These”?
The key themes include: personal responsibility, the power of silence, societal complicity, empathy, the importance of speaking out against injustice, and the lasting impact of historical trauma.
H3: 6. Why is the film set during Christmas?
The Christmas setting provides a stark contrast between the festive spirit and the harsh realities of the Magdalene Laundry, highlighting the hypocrisy and moral failings of the society. The juxtaposition amplifies the film’s message about compassion and the importance of helping those in need, especially during a time of supposed goodwill.
H3: 7. What does the film say about the role of the Church in Irish society at that time?
The film subtly criticizes the Church’s role in perpetuating the system of the Magdalene Laundries. While it doesn’t explicitly condemn the Church, it depicts the institution as complicit in the abuse and exploitation of vulnerable women. The silence and complicity of the local priest are particularly telling.
H3: 8. Is “Small Things Like These” a hopeful film?
While the film deals with dark themes, it ultimately offers a glimmer of hope. Furlong’s act of kindness and his willingness to defy the community’s silence suggest that individuals can make a difference, even in the face of overwhelming societal pressure. The hope lies in the potential for change through individual action.
H3: 9. What is the significance of the ending?
The ending is ambiguous but suggests that Furlong’s actions, while seemingly small, have a profound impact. The subtle expressions and the shared moment with his wife imply a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to standing up for what is right.
H3: 10. What should I watch after “Small Things Like These”?
If you enjoyed “Small Things Like These,” you might appreciate other films that explore similar themes, such as “Philomena,” “The Magdalene Sisters,” or “Brooklyn.” Consider also reading Claire Keegan’s other works to deepen your understanding of her style and themes.
H3: 11. Is “Small Things Like These” historically accurate?
Yes, the film is based on the historical reality of the Magdalene Laundries. While the characters and specific events are fictionalized, the film accurately portrays the conditions and the abuses that occurred in these institutions.
H3: 12. How can I support efforts to commemorate and reconcile with the victims of the Magdalene Laundries?
You can support organizations that work to commemorate the victims of the Magdalene Laundries and provide support to survivors. Research local and national organizations dedicated to historical justice and survivor advocacy. Educating yourself and others about the history of the Magdalene Laundries is also crucial.
By approaching “Small Things Like These” with an open mind and a willingness to engage with its subtle nuances, viewers can unlock the film’s profound message and appreciate its quiet power. The film serves as a potent reminder of the importance of personal responsibility and the courage to challenge societal complicity, even in the face of overwhelming pressure.