Released in 2003, Intermission is a gritty, darkly comedic Irish film that dives into the messy, interconnected lives of its characters in contemporary Dublin.
Directed by John Crowley and written by Mark O’Rowe, the film boasts an ensemble cast featuring Colin Farrell, Cillian Murphy, Kelly Macdonald, Colm Meaney, and Shirley Henderson. With its sharp wit, nonlinear storytelling, and raw authenticity, Intermission has earned its place as a cult favorite in Irish cinema.
Intermission: Plot
The movie opens with a startling act of violence: petty criminal Lehiff (Colin Farrell) flirts with a cashier before punching her and robbing the store. This shocking yet absurdly humorous moment sets the tone for a narrative that intertwines multiple stories of love, crime, and desperation.
At the centre of the chaos is John (Cillian Murphy), a heartbroken young man trying to win back his ex-girlfriend Deirdre (Kelly Macdonald), who has left him for Sam (Michael McElhatton), a smug bank manager. John’s heartbreak leads him into the orbit of Lehiff, who involves him in a kidnapping scheme that spirals out of control.
Meanwhile, we meet Detective Jerry Lynch (Colm Meaney), an egotistical and self-absorbed cop obsessed with self-promotion, and Sally (Shirley Henderson), Deirdre’s sister, struggling with insecurities and a botched cosmetic experiment. Adding to the chaos is Oscar (David Wilmot), a lonely bus driver whose misadventures inadvertently connect him to the central crime plot.
A Portrait of Urban Life
Intermission is more than a crime caper; it’s an exploration of human connection and fallibility. Love, in all its messy and imperfect forms, runs as a central theme. Characters hurt one another, make impulsive decisions, and struggle to reconcile their emotions.
The film also captures the unpredictability of urban life. Each storyline, no matter how small, creates ripples that affect the others, illustrating how interconnected people’s lives can be in a city like Dublin. The city itself becomes a character in the film, its streets and pubs providing a textured backdrop that reflects the chaos of the narrative.
Upon release, Intermission received widespread critical acclaim for its sharp writing, dynamic performances, and authentic portrayal of Dublin. Critics compared it favorably to films like Trainspotting and Pulp Fiction for its dark humour and ensemble narrative.
The film was a modest box office success, earning approximately $5 million worldwide—an impressive feat for an independent Irish production. It also garnered several Irish Film & Television Award (IFTA) nominations, including Best Film and Best Screenplay.
For many involved, Intermission marked a significant turning point. Colin Farrell and Cillian Murphy continued to rise as international stars, while John Crowley went on to direct acclaimed projects like Brooklyn (2015). Meanwhile, Mark O’Rowe cemented his reputation as one of Ireland’s most distinctive screenwriters.
Intermission thrives on its ability to blend gritty realism with sharp humour. Its characters are flawed, unpredictable, and deeply human, making their struggles and triumphs resonate with audiences.
In its mix of absurdity, humour, and heartfelt moments, Intermission captures the essence of life in all its messy, interconnected glory.
