Cannes 2014 Review: ‘Jimmy’s Hall’

Ken Loach returns to Cannes with another politically-charged tale. While Jimmy’s Hall may not win the Palme d’Or, it should win a few hearts.

Irishman, socialist and loveable rebel, Jimmy Gralton, returns to the gloom of 1930s rural Ireland after a decade of exile in the US. Seeing the young people of his home town in a funk, he takes it on himself to open a dance hall where local youth can learn, argue, dream…but, above all, dance and have fun.

Despite his time away, the political climate has changed little and the rigid views of the Catholic Church are as strong an influence as ever – frowning upon such freedom of expression and rebellious action – leading to a clash between Jimmy and local leaders, and Jimmy’s deportation without trial.

The cast is incredibly important to films like this and it’s excellent across the board. Barry Ward and Simone Kirby have great chemistry, and the entire ensemble deserves credit for truly immersing us in the period, and in a struggle most Kiwis know little about.

Like all of Loach’s films, it’s perfectly crafted. However fans might find the script a little thin. That doesn’t effect the enjoyment, but I left the cinema wishing there was more depth and complexity to the story – as I’m sure there was at the time.

Jimmy’s Hall may be Ken Loach-lite but it’s still a thoroughly enjoyable watch.

7/10

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