Ircin románek: A relic that barely keeps its head above water

Is it worth your time?

Honestly, only if you have a very specific craving for black-and-white period pieces where everyone is wearing hats and acting slightly suspicious of one another. If you’re looking for high-octane excitement, go watch Destry Rides Again instead. This isn't exactly a rollercoaster.

It’s one of those movies that reminds me of finding a shoebox of old photographs in an attic. You don't recognize the people, but you appreciate that they existed once. It’s sweet, in a way. Even if it is a bit slow.

The vibe

There’s a scene about halfway through—I think—where two characters are talking in a parlor. The camera just sits there. And sits there. I swear I saw one of the extras in the background trying not to blink for a full minute. It’s weirdly charming. It makes the whole thing feel human, not like some polished studio product.

The dialogue is thick with that old-fashioned theatrical rhythm. You can practically hear the writers trying to make every line sound like a quote for the history books. It doesn't always land. Sometimes it just sounds like people trying too hard to seem important. But that’s fine. It’s part of the charm.

Odd observations:

• The lighting in the cafe scenes is surprisingly moody. It almost looks like a different movie altogether.
• I’m pretty sure I saw the same chair in three different rooms. Low budget efficiency, I guess!
• The lead actress has this way of looking at the camera that makes you think she knows the script is a bit silly.
• Why is there a dog in that one scene? It does absolutely nothing and then vanishes. I kind of love it.

It lacks the punch you get from films like The Twelve Chairs. It’s just… there. It sits on the screen and waits for you to care. Sometimes I did, sometimes I found myself checking my watch. It’s not trying to change the world. It’s just trying to finish its story.

Don't go in expecting a masterpiece. Expect a Tuesday afternoon watch. Maybe have some coffee handy. You’ll need it for the slower middle stretch. ☕️