The Sparrow is a 2022 drama from award winning Irish director Michael Kinirons
Teenager Kevin Coyle is still grieving the death of his mother. Life is made more difficult by his strict father Larry, who only seems interested in his older son Robbie’s plans to join the army. But when a casual boat trip ends with a tragic accident, Kevin has to decide whether to tell the truth about what happened on the water – a decision that could irreparably destroy his already fragile relationship with his father.
The debut directorial feature from Irish filmmaker Michael Kinirons is a quietly devastating study of grief, guilt and family that studiously avoids melodrama and easy resolutions. It remains grounded and deeply affecting throughout, thanks to moving performances from some familiar faces and screen newcomers alike.
Festivals
Galway Film Fleadh, 2022
Awards
Best Irish First Feature – Galway Film Fleadh, 2022
Best Sound – IFTA Awards, 2023
Reviews
“The maturity of [Ollie West’s] moving performance signals the arrival of a very promising young screen actor”
– Allan Hunter, Screen Daily
“It’s during the scenes between West and O’Hara that The Sparrow really takes flight… O’Hara brings a brand of menace to the big screen that few others can match”
– Stephen Burke, Film Ireland
“The acting is all round superb. West is a real find as Kevin, charismatic and intense; David O’Hara is terrific as his dad”
– Cath Clarke, The Guardian
