Based on Mr. O’Brien’s much-lauded 2001 play of the same name, Eden is quietly torrid chamber piece.
Already miserable in the midlands, the days leading up to their 10th wedding anniversary are particularly glum for Billy (Aidan Kelly) and Breda Farrell (Eileen Walsh). He’s a drunk, who, convinced he’s still one of the lads, neglects his children in favour of chasing tail. She, an isolated housewife, is equally deluded in her belief that the commemoration of their nuptials will somehow re-invigorate their mouldy marriage.
At the very least, she supposes, she’s bound to get some sexual attention. Sadly, though inactive in the bedroom at home, Billy has managed to develop an embarrassing crush on a Young Wan. Suffice it to say, the anniversary celebrations do not go according to plan.
A good-looking film of beautifully judged performances, there are echoes of Scenes From A Marriage in the premise and delivery. That said, it’s difficult to imagine that Eden, which has already screened on network television, will find much of a theatrical footing in blockbuster season. Iron Man or rainy Irish realism? Be honest.