Saoirse Ronan turns in a sweet, subtle performance as an innocent young Irish woman who immigrates to 50s Brooklyn. After her initial bout with homesickness, she blossoms, thanks to the devoted attention of a young man (Emory Cohen with quietly captivating charm and more than a hint of young Brando’s essence). A return trip home complicates her life. It’s a sentimental story with lots of tears and sweet moments. Some enjoyable supporting characters (esp. bossy landlady Julie Walters) add a lively touch. The period settings are attractively created and the fashions are lovely. It’s deliberately paced and a bit too long, but it comes together in a gently compelling drama.
(4 / 5)