munnie

Although it might be considered one of the "Groundhog Day" movies of Christmas (like "12 Days of Christmas Eve") it once again brings home many of the true values cherished during the holidays. After a frustrating and disappointing Christmas, our main character inadvertently wounds his young sister by insisting there is no Santa. In order to appease her, he wishes, at her forceful request, that every day be Christmas. His wish comes true and he is forced to relive Christmas Day over and over again. He slowly comes to discover that happiness is made and chosen, and best enjoyed when shared. If you enjoy a cheerful premise with a happy ending, this just might become one of your holiday viewing regulars.

This is the story of how Desmond Doyle fought the Irish government to have his children (Evelyn, Dermot, and Maurice) released back into his custody. After his wife desserts him, leaving behind the children also, the government takes his children until such a time as the unmarried, currently unemployed Desi "can improve his circumstances". Much to his naive and broken heart's dismay, he later realizes that once the government has them, it intends to keep them from living in a paternal, one parent home. It tells the story of this man's journey becoming a better man and father. It also tells the story of the incidents behind the over turning of an unconstitutional law which had never been successfully challenged. Played brilliantly by Pierce Brosnan (who was born in Ireland) with Alan Bates taking on the role of the ex-barrister (retired) who changed the course of Irish family history. Sophie Vavasseur does an excellent job in the title role of Evelyn. Not over played or pretentious, this is a quiet must see for those who like to see real life with some happy endings.