Is Cillian Murphy’s Small Things Like These Based on a True Story or Book?

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As a long-time fan of Irish cinema and literature, I must say that Cillian Murphy’s latest project, Small Things Like These, is a fascinating blend of both worlds. While it may not be based on a true story, it is an adaptation of Claire Keegan’s acclaimed novel, offering a unique perspective on Ireland in the 1980s.

Cillian Murphy has followed up his Oscar-winning performance in Christopher Nolan’s film Oppenheimer with the production and lead role in the historical drama titled Small Things Like These. This movie takes place in 1985, specifically in New Ross, Ireland, and focuses on Bill Furlong (played by Murphy), a coal merchant who stumbles upon disturbing truths about his own town. Some viewers are curious if this film is based on real events or a written work.

Is Small Things Like These based on a true story or real events?

No, Small Things Like These is not based on a true story, despite its setting.

A significant portion of the story focuses on the Magdalene Asylums, named after Mary Magdalene from the Bible. They served as church-run institutions where women received minimal food but no wages. These women often found themselves there due to being abandoned by their families, having children out of wedlock, or working as sex workers. Operating from the 18th century through to the late 20th century, these institutions were not just limited to Ireland; they also existed in countries like the UK, US, Canada, Sweden, and Australia.

In fact, the storyline of Small Things Like These isn’t based on actual events. The characters, such as Bill Furlong portrayed by Murphy, are purely works of fiction.

Is Small Things Like These based on a novel?

Indeed, “Small Things Like These” is derived from a novel. It’s an adaption of the 2021 novel titled “Small Things Like These” by Claire Keegan. Notable Irish playwright Enda Walsh crafted the screenplay based on Keegan’s book, while Tim Mielants (Wil) was the director for this film.

In a 2021 interview with The Guardian, Keegan expressed a differing viewpoint about the central theme of the book, stating that although Magdalene’s laundry plays a significant role in the narrative, it is not the main subject. Instead, she emphasized that the story revolves around Bill Furlong’s surroundings and atmosphere, rather than the laundries scandal itself.

Keegan went on, “In my opinion, this tale revolves around a man married with five daughters, managing a coal business and likely working excessively, perhaps dealing with a midlife crisis. It’s about a man who was cherished in his youth and finds himself unable to resist returning that affection to someone else. However, this action might ultimately be self-destructive. I believe it’s a narrative about love, but not one of the traditional romantic kind.

Small Things Like These premieres in US theaters on Friday, November 8, 2024.

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2024-11-05 14:12