Evelyn MPAA Rating: PG Entertainment: +3 Content: -1/2

This drama, based on a true story, is both uplifting and heart-wrenching. When Desmond Doyles (Pierce Brosnan) wife leaves him on the day after Christmas in 1953, he is left as sole caregiver for his daughter Evelyn (Sophie Vavasseur) and his two sons. A perpetually unemployed drunkard, Desmond is unable to support his family and requests assistance from the Irish government who declares him unfit to support his children and places them in Catholic orphanages. In order to reclaim his children, Desmond works hard to make himself a fit parent, but he soon discovers that Irish law prevents unwidowed single parents from removing their children from an orphanage. His situation seems dire until he encounters Bernadette Beattie (Julianna Margulies) who emotionally supports him and connects him with a legal team (Aidan Quinn and Stephen Rea) who will fight for Desmonds right to raise his children. His case goes all the way to the Irish Supreme Court.

Evelyn is full of positive themes. Desmond loves his children. His daughter, with her optimism and simple joy, courageously stands up for the truth and relies on her faith to guide her through hard times. In her simple way, Evelyn proves that she understands mercy, forgiveness and love better than the haughty, religious people who control her future. Desmond himself expresses a significant Christian faith, explaining his role as a father through his understanding of the Holy Trinity. The film also has a number of reasons for caution. Though part of Desmonds personal journey is to give up alcohol, the film depicts a lot of drinking in a neutral and occasionally humorous context while spending significant screen time in the local pub. The use of crude and profane language is significant; though unnecessary, its presence is usually understandable within the emotionally charged scenes. Even with these objectionable elements, Evelyn should provoke positive reflection and discussion among families.

Preview Reviewer: Shaun Daugherty
Distributor: MGM, 2500 Broadway St., Santa Monica, CA 90404