by Patrick O'Connor

THE Irish actress Saoirse Ronan was one of the youngest actresses ever to be nominated for an Oscar when she played a key role in the 2007 film Atonement.

Now the 19 year old is the focal point for this love story set against the backdrop of a nuclear attack on Britain.

I Give It A Year

by Patrick O'Connor

EVER been to a wedding and wondered if the couple were right for each other?

That's the premise behind I Give It A Year, a pleasing British rom-com with more than a passing eye on the American market.

THIS latest offering by director Ben Wheatley, who had a cult hit last year with the bizarre black comedy Sightseers, seems to have split viewers and critics right down the middle.

Wild Bill

by Patrick O'Connor

A first glance at the synopsis of this film could easily put you off – drug dealer returns home on parole after eight years banged up to find that his wife has walked out on their two sons aged 15 and 11 leaving them to fend for themselves.

Skyfall

by Patrick O'Connor

I'M not a great lover of James Bond films, finding them too contrived and flimsy. In the past, they have been a classic example of style over substance but I have to admit to having being won over by the latest in the franchise, Skyfall.

Of course, many of the usual Bond ingredients are there – the hyper-exciting opening sequence and chase; the spectacular settings and the obligatory super-arch villain.

Grabbers

by Patrick O'Connor

YOU may have to search a bit to get a viewing of this delightful low-budget sci-fi offering but it will be well worth it if you succeed.

The film, an Irish-British production, has picked up much praise on the independent film festival circuit and it is easy to see why.