MOVIE REVIEW
A Greyhound of a Girl (Mary e lo spirito di mezzanotte)
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Genre: Animation, Drama, Family
Year Released: 2023, 2024
Runtime: 1h 25m
Director(s): Enzo D'Alo
Writer(s): Enzo D’Alo, Roddy Doyle. Dave Ingham
Cast: Brendan Gleeson, Rosaleen Linehan, Sharon Horgan, Charlene McKenna, Mia O’Connor
Where To Watch: available digitally on November 1, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Enzo D’Alò directs a vibrant tale of heart and hope with A GREYHOUND OF A GIRL, marrying the mystical allure of Ireland’s passion with a story of heritage and transformation. This animated treasure explores profound life themes through an enchanting lens, providing an escape into a world where past and present merge.

Central to A GREYHOUND OF A GIRL is the spirited young Mary (Mia O’Connor), an aspiring chef and a living bridge between her family’s generations. Her deep connection with her grandmother Emer (Rosaleen Linehan) is strengthened by shared passions, symbolized by an old cookbook. This relic is more than just a collection of recipes—it’s a vessel of family history. As Emer’s health declines, Mary is pushed into a whirlwind of emotional growth, facing the daunting possibility of navigating life without her mentor.

The film dazzles with its animation style, employing a kaleidoscope of colors and traditional hand-drawn animation. The dream sequences and past and present mixing are captivating, offering a stark contrast that underscores the narrative’s more profound emotional journeys. This style widens the film’s appeal and amplifies its impact, making it resonate with fans of classic stories of love and family.

The mysterious Tansey (Charlene McKenna) adds a supernatural layer to the unfolding family drama. Tansey serves as a guide, her otherworldly presence offering solace and insight as she helps the family navigate their entangled stories. This mentor enriches history by deepening the themes of legacy and loss with a gentle, almost ethereal touch.

The voice performances in the film are intense and inject a palpable humanity into the animated characters—Sharon Horgan as Scarlett (Mary’s mom) and Brendan Gleeson as Paddy’s heart to the story with their deeper connections. At the same time, O’Connor, as Mary, delivers a standout performance that beautifully captures the tumultuous journey from childhood to the brink of maturity. David Rhodes’ emotive score enhances these performances, weaving a rich backdrop and heightening the film’s dramatic arcs.

A GREYHOUND OF A GIRL triumphs as a multigenerational narrative that skillfully addresses themes of grief and familial bonds. The film challenges viewers to reflect on the enduring impacts of ancestry and memory, leaving a profound imprint long after the story concludes. I saw a few mentions of the animation style holding the film back, which broke my heart. There is a heart and passion that is within the core of hand-drawn animation that computer animation can’t fake.

While the story may not be perfect, A GREYHOUND OF A GIRL offers a heartfelt and visually engaging exploration of emotional and thematic depth. The film’s narrative strength and dynamic character portrayals create a captivating viewing experience that celebrates the power of storytelling. For those willing to embrace its journey, this film is a rewarding venture into the heart of family and the legacies that shape us.

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[photo courtesy of GOOD DEED ENTERTAINMENT]

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