Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Domnhall Gleeson, Emory Cohen
In 250 Characters or Less:
Set in 1950s Ireland, Ellis embarks on a new life in the US. Homesick at first, she makes a life for herself and even falls in love. But, a visit back home reminds her of a life of comfort and familiarity, leaving her to choose between two futures.
What Works:
Brooklyn is a very quiet and simple film...the kind of film the Oscars love to nominate for Best Picture. It's heartwarming when it needs to be, and Saoirse Ronan is endearing as the young Eilis. She has a great innocence that will bring a tear to your eye as you watch her overcome her struggles. She builds a life for herself by going to school, finding a job as a bookkeeper and falling in love with a young Italian man, Tony (Emory Cohen). But her new life must be put on hold when her sister dies and she has to return back to Ireland to be with her mother. Left with no one else, Eilis feels guilty leaving her mother behind. During her month-long stay in Ireland, she begins to build a life there as well, with a bookkeeping job and a possible new love interest. As much as she’s starting to appreciate the life she’s building in Ireland, she agonizes over the life and love she left behind in Brooklyn.
It's the kind of story immigrants to this country can relate to and first generation Americans can smile at because it reminds them of things their parents or grandparents have said or done. I even found myself reminiscing about my own family as the woman in charge of the boarding house told her girls that giggling girls should be the eighth deadly sin, as they are most likely up to no good. I grew up listening to my mother and grandmother tell me not to laugh at night because that's not something good girls do...which of course only made me laugh more.
Be Aware:
Brooklyn is full of little moments which will make you appreciate the sweet simplicity of it all. It's not a film of mass appeal, and may not be as pretentious as some other Oscar nominated art house films, but those looking for a heartwarming film will be sure to enjoy it.
Overall Grade: A-
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| Courtesy of KatiesNY.com |
In 250 Characters or Less:
This charming restaurant boasts a quaint setting that is both open and inviting. It serves traditional fare that will quickly transport you back to Ireland -- and in fact, its staff is actually predominantly from the Emerald Isle… much like our beloved Eilis.
What Works:
Katie’s Cottage prides itself on being the “friendliest” Irish restaurant in Yonkers. And it isn’t kidding. There are few, if any, restaurants that compete with the kind-hearted staff on board at this local establishment. This authentic Irish restaurant offers up classics like Shepherds Pie, Dublin Broil, and a Traditional Irish Breakfast. Not only that, but it also serves a smorgasbord of American comfort foods like mozzarella sticks and potato skins to ensure that all patrons are satisfied at the table -- whether it be brunch, lunch or dinner. While there aren’t any standout dishes, rest assured that you can expect an enjoyable and gratifying meal at Katie’s Cottage.
Be Aware:
This is not a go-to for date nights and special occasions. Katie’s Cottage is super casual and would prefer to be known as a place welcoming anyone and everyone. This is and should be a bonus, but a heads up that this is not the place for a formal affair.
Overall Grade: B+
521 Central Park Avenue in Yonkers
(914) 965-0422
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