Video Interview: John Michael McDonagh for 'Calvary'

– By Beau Behan, Film Critic & Entertainment Reporter

Calvary (2014), R, 100 min, Drama

Expanding nationwide (USA), Aug 22, 2014

Stars : Brendan Gleeson, Chris O’Dowd, Kelly Reilly

Director : John Michael McDonagh

Writer: John Michael McDonagh

Directed and written by John Michael McDonagh, Calvary is an intriguing and fascinating paradox with the underpinnings of a “who’s-gonna-do-it?” mystery.

Golden Globe nominated Brendan Gleeson stars in the film as Father James, the good-hearted priest of a local Irish town who receives a death threat amid a man’s confession. The confessor gives him seven days to deal with all of his affairs before his eventual assassination.

The film’s emotional complexity is captivating as James deals with being a Father (man of cloth) to his parishioners and a father to his daughter, Fiona (Kelly Reilly).

Calvary is the second film collaboration between McDonagh and Gleeson after the widely praised film, The Guard – a crime comedy with a buddy cop twist.

I ask whether it was easier for McDonagh to work with Gleeson the second time around? McDonagh’s response in the interview is enlightening as it delves more into the heart of Calvary.

Calvary ‘s theme is universal as it deals with the virtues of humility, grace, and forgiveness. This is one movie gem not to miss!

Photo: John Michael McDonagh, Kelly Reilly, Brendan Gleeson (Photo Credit: Fox Searchlight Pictures)