Beautiful. 

I was held spellbound throughout, whilst being swept along by a tide of events and atmosphere... and a flood of emotion.

The location photography in Ireland is sumptuous in its beauty. The story is based on the book by Niall Williams and takes place in the West of Ireland and Dublin (with some filming in Northern Ireland).

There is a strong theme of love and romance throughout, running like a stream... and on into a torrential river with waterfalls and waves and tides and ripples. The music and soundtrack are stunning, completely driving the action and events along with its rhythm...  and to the beat of the bodhrán. The music is composed by Anne Nikitin.

The cast is stellar, with Helena Bonham Carter as Margaret, Pierce Brosnan as William and Gabriel Byrne as Muiris. Ann Skelly appears as Isabel; Shaun is played by Donal Finn and Fionn O' Shea plays Nicholas. There is excellent support from cast members Conor Dan and Pat Shortt as Ryan and John Flannery, respectively. The performances given by the cast are excellent. The film is directed by Polly Steele and produced by Debbie Gray, Douglas Cummings. Screenwriter is Niall Williams, the author of the original book.

There is a tale being woven, as the story begins to unfold. Events interweave, threaded together to form a very big and intricate picture. Elements of poetry, art, music, spirituality, religion, mystery and some mystical glimpses, as well as existential themes are all in the mix. Nothing is left wanting. All set against the backdrop of a gorgeous Ireland, where the environment not only blends in with the story but is an integral, organic part of it. 

The Gaelic motif is integral too, providing a truly authentic stamp.

The plot and the journey embarked upon by the characters is enchanting and gripping, taking the audience lurching along. The story is full of surprises and unexpected twists and turns. If it seems dramatic... it's because it is. Real drama. Some of the subject matter is tragic and desperately sad, containing some very poignant moments indeed. There is a lovely counterbalance of fun and humour, wildness and touching moments, too. "Lovely" was the hushed comment heard from the audience. 

I was definitely "crying me a river". The ending is a very special reveal. 

Four Letters of Love paints a very, very....

Romantic portrait.