On general release

Norah McGettigan / Ireland/Poland / 2012 / 90 min

In many modern films, the death of a loved one marks the end of the piece and the culmination of the film’s action, however Norah McGettigan’s directorial debut, Sanctuary begins with the aftermath of a death. Adult daughter Nadia (Agnieszka Zulewska) mourns the loss of her mother while her father Jan, (Jan Frycz) laments the sudden death of his wife and the gradual decline of their marriage. But the early days of grief give way to travel and new beginnings, as Jan meets and begins to fall in love with Marie (Ann Marie Duff).

Filmed in both Poland and Ireland, McGettigan’s Sanctuary presents a portrait of a family divided by time, emotion and distance who are struggling to reconnect and come to terms with the end of their lives as they once were. Although the film does concern itself with grief, it doesn’t allow itself to become consumed by it. Under McGettigan’s careful direction, Sanctuary explores life after death for those left behind in the most moving and emotive way, while successfully managing to avoid falling to stereotype and cliché. One of the most truthful depictions of grief, anger and human relationships, this film is supported by the talents of a strong and united cast who help make Sanctuary one of the most beautiful and unforgettable films to come out of Europe this year.

Showing as part of the Glasgow Film Festival 2013

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