From Academy Awad Nominee Jim Sheridan comes this deeply personal and poignant tale of a poor Irish family searching for a better life In America. Through the eyes of their spunky daughters, two anguished parents find hope... more » and the ability to once again believe in love and magic?even amidst the dangers of New York's harrowing Hell's Kitchen. With mesmerizing performances by Samantha Morton and Djimon Hounsou, In America is "a classic" (USA Today) you won't ever forget.« less
Very strong start and then a pop fizzle. 120X and then quick eject does not help! Just skip this all together!
Sharon F. (Shar) from AVON PARK, FL Reviewed on 3/29/2022...
This is not the feel-good, rags to riches, make it in America story that I thought it might be. It's a very sad but enlightening story of what immigrants go through who settle in New York without any family already settled here.
3 of 4 member(s) found this review helpful.
Michael C. (msc1208) from ROANOKE, VA Reviewed on 8/23/2015...
I am about 10 years late catching this one and its definitely one I highly recommend. There are good movies and then there are movies that cross a line from being good to being something very special. This film crosses that line. Not here to write a "description" review, there are plenty of those on here already, don't read them just get this and watch it. The little you know before going into this film, the better. One major thing I would like to point out is that this film is Rated PG-13, not Rated R as stated in the description. If you avoid R Rated movies please don't let a typo keep you away.
4 of 5 member(s) found this review helpful.
Pamela A. from WHEELING, WV Reviewed on 9/11/2009...
You owe it to yourself to see this movie. It is very well done and holds your interest. Very believable acting.
3 of 5 member(s) found this review helpful.
Mary-Jo W. (mjowest) from SHELBYVILLE, MI Reviewed on 9/5/2009...
Same here! WAtch this one! The actors are so good, that these appear to be real people just living their lives. Or trying to live their lives. They don't ask for much, just for their family to be together and be happy. Struggling with emotions that no one wants to admit, talk about or even experience, the characters are on a journey.
Excellent, excellent movie!!
3 of 4 member(s) found this review helpful.
Gretchen D. (Gretchendz) from ADA, MI Reviewed on 1/31/2009...
This film is powerful and compelling.
0 of 4 member(s) found this review helpful.
S A A. (Learned2Heal) Reviewed on 10/21/2008...
OK, I don't get why there are so many copies of this movie available on the system. For crying out loud, just look at all the nominations and awards they got!!!
I have watched this movie 3 times since I received it about 3-4 weeks ago. The title is a bit misleading, so don't go by that. It's a very cool movie about a very interesting family. The acting is excellent from all the actors. Djimon Hounsou is eminently watchable, both for his acting ability and his physical beauty. The two little girls (who are sisters in real life as well) are awesome actresses, very natural, very endearing which, as we all know, is a rarity with child actors.
The storyline, which is very touching overall, has its humorous moments too. The seedy side of New York (Hell's Kitchen) is fascinating to explore, as are the trials and tribulations of all the characters, which are very well fleshed out.
All in all, it's a story that pulls you in and leaves you wanting more when it's over. I love this movie and won't be re-listing my copy anytime soon. I recommend it highly. You won't be disappointed.
2 of 3 member(s) found this review helpful.
Movie Reviews
A Minor Masterpiece
Robert Regan | Brewster NY | 06/30/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"One of the most deeply-felt and moving films of our time. It is about being an alien and loving one's children. It is one of my all-time favorites, and I have sent copies to my daughters."
Wonderful film
SplitEdit | Los Angeles | 12/26/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"One of the most beautiful, moving films I know of. Touching, sad, heroic all at once. To say more would ruin it. But catch Jim Sheridan's commentary. It's just as deep as the film."
GOOD PERFORMANCES ALL AROUND IN THIS BITTERSWEET STORY!
! MR. KNOW IT ALL ;-b | TRI STATE AREA | 06/12/2010
(4 out of 5 stars)
"'In America' is an impressive little film about great loss and not appreciating what you have. The story is about a young Irish couple with two young daughters. The family comes to the United States to make a better life for themselves, but there is more below the surface. They can't cope with the loss of the young son who died and running away never really solves anything. The acting is very good in this film, especially the two young daughters who I felt were above and beyond most kids in these types of films.
The parents and the neighbor who becomes their friend also give excellent performances. The story could have been a sappy mess, but turns out to be a subtle winner. I caught this on cable so I'm not sure about the DVD release but, it is definitely worth a look."