It has something for everyone, from love to Leprechauns!

E.Bola

I first remember seeing this film when I was about 5 years old, and although I've seen it countless times since, its magic and appeal has remained.

The story revolves around the lives of Darby O'Gill, the aging groundsman of Lord Fitzpatricks summer house, his daughter Katy and Michael McBride, the young replacement for Darby's job.

As well as this, on the supernatural front, there is also Darby's friendship with the wily King Brian of Knocknasheega, king of the Leprechauns (the little people), who live in the mountain near the village. There is also, on a more sinister note ,the banshee and the death coach, as well as the more earthly villain, Pony Sugrue, the local bully.

This is a lovely little story full of lilting music,Irish folk tales, humour, (mild) horror, a love story and some of the best special effects I've seen in a movie. Given that this movie was made 40 years ago, the special effects used for the little people- giant sets and trick photography, are GREAT!

There is very little, in fact that this movie does not contain. It is a delight for all the family and will continue to delight for years to come.

score /10

E.Bola 14 January 1999

Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw0067568/