'All Good Children' stunningly effective

Director: Alicia Duffy

Cast: Jack Gleeson, David Brazil, Imogen Jones, Kate Duchene

Cert: 15

A terrific directing debut from Duffy – who also wrote the screenplay taken from the Sam Taylor novel 'The Republic of Trees' – and a clutch of outstanding performances from a young cast.

The theme of the story is young love, jealousy and the tragedies they can bring, all wonderfully captured in what is a memorable film.

On the death of their mother two young Irish brothers – Dara (Gleeson) and Eoin (Brazil) – are sent to live with their aunt – Lynne (Duchene) – in France. There Dara discovers the charms of neighbouring English girl Bella (Jones), who in turn takes more to Eoin, with complex results.

There is a 'Romeo and Juliet' feel to the story since Bella’s parents ban Dara from seeing her and the setting, largely in a forest, lends itself to a confined and somehow menacing atmosphere.

All in all, a stunningly effective film.

Star Rating: 4/5