Small Things Like These is a 2024 drama film from Ireland that is set around the Christmas festivities, in a sense, although it is far from a cheery holiday film. Adapted from a 2021 novella of the same name by Claire Keegan, the film’s plot follows a coal merchant named Bill Furlong who makes a shocking discovery at the local convent when he goes there to fulfill a regular order. Made in a very straightforward and quiet style, with minimal dialogue, sound, and grandeur of any kind, Small Things Like These hits all the right chords nonetheless, driven by the brilliant acting performances and the narrative.

Spoiler Alert

What is the film about?

Small Things Like These begins with the tolling church bells announcing the start of a new day in a small Irish town. As the dark sky slowly lights up to reveal a gloomy and cloudy day, people gradually...