@celeste_writes
A patient, formally daring work — the cinematography lingers on empty rooms longer than most audiences will tolerate, but those who stay are rewarded with the most haunting final act of the year.
Set in Belfast against the backdrop of the 1986 World Cup, Shooting for Socrates tells the story of a momentous time in Northern Ireland's football history through the eyes of players, fans and the media. The film also follows the lives of passionate football supporter Arthur and his son Tommy from East Belfast. The lead up to a momentous day in the life of a young boy (his 10th birthday) mirrors the build up to the big day for the Northern Ireland football team as they play the greatest match of their lives.
Quick Stats
6.8
TMDB Rating
7
Votes
1h 32m
Runtime
—
Budget
—
Box Office
—
Return
Key Crew
DirectorJames Erskine
WriterMarie Jones
CinematographyJoel Devlin
EditorJason Savage
Produced by
New Black Films
Where to Watch
Rent
Apple TV Store
Amazon Video
Sky StoreBuy
Apple TV StoreAmazon VideoSee more on TMDB → JustWatch
Critics & Reviews
3 featured@jhalberg
I walked in expecting another genre exercise and walked out feeling like I'd been eavesdropping on a confession. The lead performance is genuinely singular — a career-defining turn.
@priya_a
A few too many scenes feel borrowed from a better film, but the soundtrack and the production design carry the rest. Solid recommendation for fans of slow-burn European thrillers.
Cast
John Hannah
Billy Bingham
Conleth Hill
Jackie Fullerton
Richard Dormer
Arthur
Art Parkinson
Tommy
Ciarán McMenamin
Sammy McIlroy
Nico Mirallegro
David Campbell
Bronagh Gallagher
Irene
Paul Kennedy
Pat Jennings
Chris Newman
Norman Whiteside
Aaron McCusker
Gerry Armstrong
M
Mathew McElhinney
Jimmy Nichol
Barry Ward
Jimmy Quinn
Patrick Buchanan
Alan McDonald
D
Declan Rodgers
Bernard McNally
Stephen Hagan
Phil Hughes
