“Rory O’Shea Was Here” Directed by
Damien O’Donnel Focus Features
It is a rare occurrence when films do justice to people with
disabilities ““ they often either portray them as patient
martyrs or as cartoon-like sidekicks. Luckily, “Rory
O’Shea Was Here” is not a typical film about people
with disabilities. It is first and foremost a buddy film, in which
the main characters happen to be wheelchair-bound. In capturing the
characters’ comic antics and flaws as well as their
remarkable friendship, this film succeeds in relating to the more
humanistic side of disability. Set in Dublin, the film tells the
story of two young men who meet in the Carrigmore Home for the
Disabled. Michael (Steven Robertson), who has lived in residential
care all of his life, has cerebral palsy and his speech is
incomprehensible ““ not only to the characters in the film,
but to the audience as well. Rory (James McAvoy) has muscular
dystrophy and when he moves into Carrigmore, he becomes
Michael’s best friend and translator. The two sneak off to
dance in clubs and pick up girls in pubs. After applying for
independent living, they move into their own flat and proceed with
life’s adventures. Because Rory is the only one who can
communicate with other people and Michael is the only one who has
some ability to move, the two have to work together to accomplish
even the simple task of using a public telephone. Witnessing their
collaboration, which can be quite hilarious at times, one cannot
help feeling completely engaged in the way they overcome obstacle
after obstacle. Director Damien O’Donnell avoids overly
sentimental storytelling and instead relies on the chemistry of the
actors to carry the film. One of the most refreshing aspects is the
fact that the characters are far from perfect. While Rory embodies
spontaneity and fun, there are moments when he acts like an
absolute arse. Ultimately, the characters are completely fleshed
out ““ flaws and all. -Emily Camastra