Dear Movies, I Love You – Episode: Irish Cinema & The Banshees of Inisherin (2022)

Release Date: March 11, 2025
Hosts: Millie De Chirico and Casey O'Brien
Network: Exactly Right Podcasts

Introduction

The episode kicks off with Millie De Chirico and Casey O'Brien engaging in playful banter about their appearances, setting a lighthearted and relatable tone for the discussion ahead.

Exploring Irish Cinema

Millie De Chirico [05:08]:
"Welcome, welcome, welcome to another episode of Dear Movies, I Love You. This is the film podcast where you and I and us are having a tumultuous, torrid, spicy romance with motion pictures."

Millie and Casey delve into the rich landscape of Irish cinema, highlighting their personal connections and the unique qualities that distinguish it from other national film industries. Casey shares his academic background in Irish cinema, which adds depth to their exploration.

Casey O'Brien [25:26]:
"When you think of Irish cinema, they're often very dark and funny and gloomy with a sense of tragedy, even in the lightest movies."

They discuss prominent Irish actors like Daniel Day-Lewis, Colin Farrell, Martin McDonagh, and Brendan Gleeson, acknowledging their significant contributions to the film industry. Millie mentions Saoirse Ronan, adding to the list of notable Irish talents.

Deep Dive: The Banshees of Inisherin

The hosts focus on the acclaimed film "The Banshees of Inisherin," starring Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson. They provide a comprehensive synopsis and analyze the film’s themes, such as the fragility of friendships and the dark humor intrinsic to Irish storytelling.

Casey O'Brien [30:59]:
"The Banshees of Inisherin is a comedy slash horror that explores the breakdown of a lifelong friendship on a remote Irish island."

Millie relates the film’s narrative to her personal life, sharing a poignant story about her father's similar experience with a long-term friend deciding to end their friendship. This connection adds an emotional layer to their analysis.

Millie De Chirico [35:27]:
"It felt like watching Brendan Gleason’s character mirror my dad's real-life situation, making the film incredibly impactful."

They praise the film’s direction, cinematography, and performances, particularly highlighting Carrie Coon’s role as Brendan Gleason’s sister. The discussion emphasizes the film’s ability to portray deep emotional struggles with authenticity and dark humor.

Millie De Chirico [43:15]:
"The dynamic between the black cat and golden retriever personalities perfectly encapsulates the tension and eventual breakdown of the friendship."

Film Diary

Millie De Chirico [14:53]:
"I haven't watched an actual motion picture in the past couple of days, but I did rewatch a fascinating docu-series about BTS called 'In the Soup.'"

Millie shares her recent immersion into K-Pop culture, particularly her engagement with BTS’s documentary series. She appreciates the serene and authentic portrayal of the band’s interactions during their vacation, contrasting it with her usual film-watching habits.

Casey O'Brien [19:27]:
"I've been binge-watching 'Love is Blind,' a reality TV show that, while not cinematic, has been oddly captivating."

Casey discusses his indulgence in "Love is Blind," reflecting on the emotional rollercoaster of watching relationships unfold without visual interactions. Their film diary segments offer a glimpse into their diverse viewing preferences beyond traditional cinema.

Film Gripe: Pre-Movie Events Overload

Millie vents about the increasingly lengthy and unanticipated pre-movie events at theaters, such as extended introductions, trivia, and interactive segments that delay the actual start of the film.

Millie De Chirico [06:14]:
"Lately, there's been a rash of pre-movie events that extend far beyond the advertised start time, making the theater experience feel more like a variety show than a movie night."

Casey empathizes, suggesting that these extended sessions can deter audiences seeking a straightforward cinematic experience. They both agree that while some pre-movie content can enhance the viewing experience, balance is essential to maintain engagement.

Film Advice Ultra

The hosts address listener questions, providing thoughtful insights and recommendations:

1. Navigating Keanu Reeves’ Filmography

   • Nicole’s Question [52:42]:
     "How to traverse Keanu Reeves’ movies to honor his career without feeling overwhelmed by unavailable films?"

   • Millie De Chirico [54:07]:
     "Start with his newer works like the John Wick series, then move to older films such as 'River’s Edge' and 'Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure.'"

   • Casey O'Brien [57:00]:
     "Categorize his films into genres—action (e.g., 'Speed'), drama (e.g., 'The Devil’s Advocate'), and sci-fi (e.g., 'The Matrix') to streamline your viewing."

2. Understanding "Beau is Afraid"

   • Jeff’s Question [52:42]:
     "Can you explain and defend 'Beau is Afraid'? I found it unresolved and frustrating."

   • Millie De Chirico [62:10]:
     "Sometimes these avant-garde films are meant to provoke and evoke personal emotional responses rather than provide clear resolutions."

   • Casey O'Brien [63:06]:
     "Appreciate how the film makes you feel, even if it leaves you bewildered. Emotional impact is a valid metric for its success."

3. Recommendations for Short Thrillers/Horrors

   • Shannon’s Question [65:05]:
     "Looking for thriller/horror movies under 90 minutes for a partner with a short attention span."

   • Millie De Chirico [65:28]:
     "Consider classic horror films from the 1930s or 1980s franchises like 'Child’s Play' and 'Jason' that maintain suspense without overextending."

   • Casey O'Brien [68:09]:
     "Movies like 'Cube' (90 mins), 'Sexy Beast' (2000), and 'Evil Dead 2' (84 mins) are excellent choices."

Employees’ Picks

Millie De Chirico [70:37]:
"I recommend rewatching 'Once' (2007), a romantic drama about creative collaboration that remains emotionally resonant."
She suggests a watch party to revisit the film together, emphasizing its timeless appeal and personal significance.

Casey O'Brien [74:13]:
"My pick is 'The Butcher Boy' (1997) by Neil Jordan, a dark and fantastical film about a mentally troubled boy. It's a blend of humor, violence, and surreal elements that offer a unique viewing experience."

Conclusion

Millie and Casey wrap up the episode by encouraging listeners to engage with them on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Letterboxd. They invite listeners to send in their film-related questions and share their thoughts on Irish cinema and "The Banshees of Inisherin."

Millie De Chirico [75:06]:
"If anyone wants to fly us out for a live show in Dublin, email us at DearMovies@exactlyrightmedia.com."

They close with well-wishes for St. Patrick's Day and acknowledge their production team, maintaining the episode’s friendly and inclusive atmosphere.

Notable Quotes

• Millie De Chirico [07:40]:
  "The pre-movie pomp and circumstance feels like performance art that eats into the actual movie time."

• Casey O'Brien [25:38]:
  "Irish cinema often delves into dark humor and tragedy, reflecting the complex emotions of its people."

• Millie De Chirico [30:14]:
  "There’s a messiness to Irish movies where they can wallow in darkness yet still laugh about it."

• Casey O'Brien [43:30]:
  "Brendan Gleason’s character couldn’t just communicate his need for solitude; he had to take drastic measures."

Follow Dear Movies, I Love You:

• Instagram & Facebook: @dearmoviesiloveyou
• Email: DearMovies@exactlyrightmedia.com
• Letterboxd: Casey Lee O'Brien and M. De Chirico

This episode offers an insightful exploration of Irish cinema through the lens of "The Banshees of Inisherin," enriched by personal anecdotes and thoughtful analysis. Millie and Casey's dynamic discussions provide both entertainment and depth, making it a valuable listen for film enthusiasts seeking nuanced conversations about their favorite movies.