For those looking to spend their St. Patrick’s Day inside curled up comfy on the couch (with or without the green beer!), we have the perfect accompaniment. Irish themed movies!
It’s that time of year again! March brings out all the green shakes, green bagels, leprechaun hats and shamrocks! And green beer and pub hopping, of course.
But for those looking to spend their St. Patrick’s Day inside curled up comfy on the couch (with or without the green beer!), we have the perfect accompaniment. An Irish themed movie!
To qualify for the list, the movie needs to be about or set in Ireland, feature Irish characters or prominent Irish actors, have reference to St. Pattys Day in some way or include a leprechaun (I mean, leprechauns make any movie worth watching).
This list includes Irish movies in all genres, from classics to comedy to drama and romance, even some horror for those less serious brave celebrants (like me, I love “Leprechaun“.
We’ve included family friendly movies (G and PG), appropriate for viewing with all members of the family.
So, let’s get to the list. Let us know what you thought of the selection in the comments following the article.
St. Patrick’s Day celebrates the death of Saint Patrick (c. 385 – c. 461), the patron saint of Ireland. Its a religious as well as cultural holiday observed on March 17th, celebrating the arrival of Christianity to Ireland as well as Irish culture. The day is honored with parades, festivals and by wearing green clothing and shamrocks.
Who is this list of Irish movies for?
Fans of Irish culture and Ireland
People wanting to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a movie marathon of Irish themed movies
Anyone looking to watch something different
What information is provided about each St. Pattys movie in this selection?
The movie title and release year of the movie
Image of movie
Director
A list of actors in the movie
The MPAA rating
Link to the movie in IMDb – For movie reviews, where to stream, ratings, trailers and lots more.
Link to where movie is streaming for FREE (if available)
This animated fantasy film is inspired by the creation of the Book of Kells, a medieval Irish manuscript. The story follows Brendan, a young monk who lives in a remote abbey under the rule of his strict uncle, Abbot Cellach. When a mysterious illuminator named Aidan arrives with his cat Pangur Bán, Brendan becomes fascinated by the art of calligraphy and the secrets of the book. He embarks on a perilous adventure in the enchanted forest, where he meets the fairy Aisling and faces the evil Crom Cruach. The film is a visual feast, with stunning animation and vibrant colors that evoke the style of Celtic art. It also explores themes of courage, faith, and creativity.
2. Brooklyn (2015)
Director: John Crowley
Actors: Saoirse Ronan, Emory Cohen, Domhnall Gleeson, Jim Broadbent
This romantic drama is based on the novel by Colm Tóibín and tells the story of Eilis Lacey, a young Irish woman who immigrates to Brooklyn, New York, in the 1950s. She struggles with homesickness and loneliness until she meets Tony, a charming Italian-American plumber who woos her with his kindness and humor. They fall in love and plan to marry, but a family tragedy forces Eilis to return to Ireland, where she faces a difficult choice between her old and new lives. The film is a moving portrait of the immigrant experience, with a captivating performance by Saoirse Ronan as the conflicted heroine. It also showcases the beauty and contrast of both Ireland and Brooklyn, as well as the costumes and music of the era.
3. Leap Year (2010)
Director: Anand Tucker
Actors: Amy Adams, Matthew Goode, Adam Scott, John Lithgow
This romantic comedy is inspired by the Irish tradition that allows women to propose to men on leap day, February 29. The plot follows Anna, a high-strung American woman who travels to Dublin to propose to her boyfriend Jeremy, a cardiologist who is attending a conference there. However, her plans go awry when bad weather and other mishaps prevent her from reaching her destination. She ends up hiring Declan, a cynical Irish innkeeper, to drive her across the country. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and adventures, as well as a growing attraction for each other. The film is a lighthearted and charming escapade, with witty banter and scenic views of the Irish countryside. It also features some quirky characters and cultural references that add to the humor and romance.
This musical romance film is about a struggling Irish busker and a Czech immigrant who bond over their shared love of music. The film features original songs performed by the lead actors, who are also professional musicians. The film is a realistic and heartfelt portrayal of the challenges and joys of artistic expression and cross cultural connection. It also showcases the vibrant and diverse musical scene of Dublin. The film won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Falling Slowly”.
5. Gangs of New York (2002)
Director: Martin Scorsese
Actors: Leonardo DiCaprio, Daniel Day-Lewis, Cameron Diaz, Jim Broadbent
This historical drama film is based on Herbert Asbury’s 1927 book The Gangs of New York. The film depicts the violent clashes between various gangs of immigrants and natives in the Five Points district of New York City in the mid 19th century. The film focuses on the revenge plot of Amsterdam Vallon, the son of a slain Irish leader, against Bill “The Butcher” Cutting, the ruthless leader of the nativist gang. The film is a sprawling and epic saga of crime, politics, and corruption, with stunning cinematography and production design. The film received ten Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Day-Lewis.
6. Waking Ned Devine (1998)
Director: Kirk Jones
Actors: Ian Bannen, David Kelly, Fionnula Flanagan, Susan Lynch
This comedy film is about a small Irish village that tries to claim the lottery prize of a deceased resident, Ned Devine, who died of shock after winning. The film follows the schemes and antics of Ned’s friends, Jackie and Michael, who pretend to be Ned and try to fool the lottery inspector. The film is a hilarious and heartwarming tale of friendship, community, and greed, with memorable characters and situations. The film was a sleeper hit and received positive reviews from critics and audiences.
7. Ondine (2009)
Director: Neil Jordan
Actors: Colin Farrell, Alicja Bachleda, Dervla Kirwan, Stephen Rea
This fantasy drama film is about a fisherman named Syracuse who finds a mysterious woman in his net whom his daughter believes to be a selkie, a mythical creature that can transform from a seal to a human. The film explores the themes of love, magic, and identity through the relationship between Syracuse, the woman, and his daughter. The film is set in the beautiful scenery of the Irish coast and features a haunting soundtrack by Sigur Rós.
8. The Commitments (1991)
Director: Alan Parker
Actors: Robert Arkins, Michael Aherne, Angeline Ball, Maria Doyle Kennedy
This musical comedy film is based on the novel by Roddy Doyle and tells the story of Jimmy Rabbitte, a young music fan who forms a soul band with a group of working class youths in Dublin. The film follows the band’s rise and fall, as they deal with personal conflicts, musical challenges, and social issues. The film features a lot of soul classics performed by the actors themselves, and showcases the humor and spirit of the Irish people.
9. Circle of Friends (1995)
Director: Pat O’Connor
Actors: Chris O’Donnell, Minnie Driver, Geraldine O’Rawe, Colin Firth
This romantic drama film is based on the novel by Maeve Binchy and focuses on the lives of three women who have been friends since childhood: Benny, Eve, and Nan. The film is set in 1950s Ireland, where the women attend university in Dublin and experience love, betrayal, and friendship. The film explores the themes of class, religion, and gender in the Irish society, and features a charming performance by Minnie Driver as the plucky heroine Benny.
10. Philomena (2013)
Director: Stephen Frears
Actors: Judi Dench, Steve Coogan, Sophie Kennedy Clark, Mare Winningham
This drama film is based on the true story of Philomena Lee, an elderly Irish woman who searches for her son that she was forced to give up for adoption when she was a teenage inmate of a Catholic convent. The film follows her journey with Martin Sixsmith, a former journalist who helps her find out what happened to her son. The film is a touching and humorous exploration of faith, forgiveness, and family, with superb performances by Dench and Coogan.
11. My Left Foot (1989)
Director: Jim Sheridan
Actors: Daniel Day-Lewis, Brenda Fricker, Ray McAnally, Fiona Shaw
This biographical film is based on the memoir of Christy Brown, an Irish man born with cerebral palsy, who could control only his left foot. Brown grew up in a poor working class family, and became a writer and artist. The film depicts his struggles and achievements, as well as his relationships with his family, friends, and lovers. The film is a powerful and inspiring portrait of a remarkable person, with a stunning performance by Day-Lewis, who won an Oscar for his role.
12. Wild Mountain Thyme (2020)
Director: John Patrick Shanley
Actors: Emily Blunt, Jamie Dornan, Jon Hamm, Christopher Walken
This romantic comedy drama film is based on the play Outside Mullingar by John Patrick Shanley, who also wrote and directed the film. The film is set in the Irish countryside, where two star-crossed lovers on neighboring farms struggle to align as fickle fate and family appear to block their path. The film is a whimsical and charming tale of love, magic, and identity, with a scenic backdrop and a talented cast.
13. Veronica Guerin (2003)
Director: Joel Schumacher
Actors: Cate Blanchett, Colin Farrell, Brenda Fricker, Ciarán Hinds
This biographical film is based on the true story of Veronica Guerin, an Irish journalist who exposed some of Dublin’s most powerful crime lords and drug dealers in the 1990s. The film follows her courageous and relentless investigation, as well as the threats and attacks she faced from the criminals. The film is a gripping and tragic portrait of a woman who sacrificed her life for the truth, with a brilliant performance by Blanchett as the fearless reporter.
14. Dancing at Lughnasa (1998)
Director: Pat O’Connor
Actors: Meryl Streep, Michael Gambon, Catherine McCormack, Kathy Burke
This drama film is based on the play by Brian Friel and set in County Donegal, Ireland, in 1936. The film depicts the lives of five unmarried sisters who struggle with poverty, loneliness, and family conflicts. The film also explores the themes of love, religion, and tradition, as the sisters face the changes brought by the modern world. The film is a touching and nostalgic adaptation of the acclaimed play, with a stellar cast and a beautiful soundtrack.
15. Angela’s Ashes (1999)
Director: Alan Parker
Actors: Emily Watson, Robert Carlyle, Joe Breen, Michael Legge
This drama film is based on the memoir by Frank McCourt, who recounts his childhood in Brooklyn and Limerick, Ireland, in the 1930s and 1940s. The film shows the hardships and miseries that he and his family endured, such as hunger, disease, death, and alcoholism. The film is a faithful and powerful rendition of the best selling book, with a realistic and emotional portrayal of the Irish immigrant experience.
16. Leprechaun (1992)
Director: Mark Jones
Actors: Warwick Davis, Jennifer Aniston, Ken Olandt, Mark Holton
This horror comedy film is about a malevolent leprechaun who goes on a killing spree after his gold is stolen by a group of people who unwittingly unleash him from a crate. The film is a cult classic, with a mix of gore, humor, and Irish folklore. The film spawned several sequels and a reboot, featuring Warwick Davis as the titular creature.
17. Finian’s Rainbow (1968)
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Actors: Fred Astaire, Petula Clark, Tommy Steele, Don Francks
This musical fantasy film is based on the 1947 stage musical of the same name. The film follows Finian McLonergan, an Irishman who travels to America with his daughter Sharon and a stolen pot of gold, hoping to bury it near Fort Knox and make it multiply. However, he is pursued by Og, a leprechaun who needs his gold back to avoid becoming human. The film also deals with themes of racism, greed, and love, as Finian and Sharon encounter various characters in Rainbow Valley, Missitucky. The film features songs by Burton Lane and E.Y. Harburg, and was the final film appearance of Fred Astaire.
18. Far and Away (1992)
Director: Ron Howard
Actors: Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Thomas Gibson, Robert Prosky
This epic Western romantic adventure drama film is set in the late 19th century and tells the story of Joseph Donnelly and Shannon Christie, two Irish immigrants who flee to America after some trouble with Shannon’s father. They dream of owning land in Oklahoma, where it is being given away for free in a race. The film depicts their struggles and achievements, as well as their love-hate relationship, in their new land. The film was shot in Panavision Super 70mm and features a score by John Williams.
19. Hunger (2008)
Director: Steve McQueen
Actors: Michael Fassbender, Liam Cunningham, Stuart Graham, Liam McMahon
This historical drama film is based on the 1981 Irish hunger strike, led by Bobby Sands (Fassbender), a member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army who was imprisoned in the Maze Prison. The film depicts the brutal conditions and the protest methods of the prisoners, who demanded to be treated as political prisoners rather than criminals. The film is a harrowing and powerful portrait of a man who sacrificed his life for his cause, with a remarkable performance by Fassbender, who lost 33 pounds for the role.
20. The Crying Game (1992)
Director: Neil Jordan
Actors: Stephen Rea, Miranda Richardson, Jaye Davidson, Forest Whitaker
This thriller film is about a relationship between Fergus (Rea), an Irish Republican Army volunteer, and Jody (Whitaker), a kidnapped British soldier. When Jody is killed, Fergus fulfills his promise to find his girlfriend, Dil (Davidson), in London. However, Fergus discovers a shocking secret about Dil that changes everything. The film explores themes of race, sex, nationality, and sexuality against the backdrop of the Troubles in Northern Ireland. The film is famous for its plot twist and its original song, which won an Oscar.
21. The Field (1990)
Director: Jim Sheridan
Actors: Richard Harris, John Hurt, Sean Bean, Brenda Fricker
This drama film is based on the play by John B. Keane and set in a rural Irish village. The film follows “Bull” McCabe (Harris), a farmer who has spent his life tending a field that he rents from a widow. When the widow decides to sell the field at an auction, McCabe is determined to buy it, but he faces competition from an American businessman (Tom Berenger) who wants to use the land for industrial purposes. The film is a tragic and violent story of a man’s obsession with the land, with a superb performance by Harris, who was nominated for an Oscar.
22. P.S. I Love You (2007)
Director: Richard LaGravenese
Actors: Hilary Swank, Gerard Butler, Lisa Kudrow, Harry Connick Jr.
This romantic drama film is based on the novel by Cecelia Ahern and tells the story of Holly, a young widow who receives a series of letters from her late husband Gerry, who planned them before his death from a brain tumor. The letters guide Holly through her grief and encourage her to find happiness and love again. The film is a tearjerker and a tribute to the power of love, with a touching performance by Swank and a charming one by Butler.
23. Sing Street (2016)
Director: John Carney
Actors: Ferdia Walsh-Peelo, Lucy Boynton, Jack Reynor, Aidan Gillen
This musical comedy drama film is set in 1980s Dublin, where Conor, a teenager who transfers to a rough public school, forms a band with his new friends to impress Raphina, a beautiful and mysterious girl. The film features original songs inspired by the new wave and pop rock music of the era, as well as covers of classic hits. The film is a nostalgic and uplifting celebration of music, friendship, and love, with a talented young cast and a witty script.
24. The Quiet Man (1952)
Director: John Ford
Actors: John Wayne, Maureen O’Hara, Barry Fitzgerald, Victor McLaglen
This classic romantic comedy film is set in rural Ireland, where Sean, an Irish-American former boxer, returns to his ancestral home and falls in love with Mary Kate, the spirited sister of the local squire, Will. The film depicts the cultural clashes and the humorous conflicts between Sean and Mary Kate, as well as the epic fistfight between Sean and Will. The film is a visual delight, with stunning cinematography of the Irish countryside, and a chemistry filled performance by Wayne and O’Hara.
25. The Matchmaker (1997)
Director: Mark Joffe
Actors: Janeane Garofalo, David O’Hara, Milo O’Shea, Jay O. Sanders
This romantic comedy film is about Marcy, an assistant to a US senator who is sent to Ireland to find his relatives or ancestors for his re-election campaign. She arrives at a small village that is hosting an annual matchmaking festival, where she becomes the target of two professional matchmakers and a local bartender. The film is a fun and witty adventure, with a lot of cultural humor and charm.
26. The Banshees of Inisherin (2022)
Director: Martin McDonagh
Actors: Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Kerry Condon, Barry Keoghan
This dark comedy drama film is set on a remote island off the west coast of Ireland, where two lifelong friends, Padraic and Colm, find themselves at an impasse when Colm abruptly ends their friendship, with alarming consequences for both of them. The film is a macabre and tragic tale of male pride and friendship, with a lot of twists and surprises. The film reunites Farrell and Gleeson after McDonagh’s In Bruges (2008).
27. The Secret of Roan Inish (1994)
Director: John Sayles
Actors: Jeni Courtney, Eileen Colgan, Mick Lally, Pat Slowey
This fantasy adventure film is based on the novel Secret of the Ron Mor Skerry by Rosalie K. Fry, and is centered on the Irish and Orcadian folklores of selkies, seals that can turn into humans. The film follows Fiona, a young girl who is sent to live with her grandparents in a fishing village, where she learns about her family’s history and the legend of her brother who was taken by the seals. The film is a magical and heartwarming story, with beautiful cinematography and music.
28. Song of the Sea (2014)
Director: Tomm Moore
Actors: David Rawle, Brendan Gleeson, Lisa Hannigan, Fionnula Flanagan
This animated fantasy film is inspired by the Irish legend of the selkies, seal-like creatures that can transform into humans. The film follows Ben, a young boy who discovers that his mute sister Saoirse is a selkie who has to free the fairy creatures from the Celtic goddess Macha. The film is a visual feast, with stunning animation and vibrant colors that evoke the style of Celtic art. It also explores themes of courage, faith, and creativity.
This historical drama film is set during the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War in the early 20th century. The film tells the story of two brothers, Damien and Teddy, who join the Irish Republican Army to fight against the British forces and their Irish allies. The film depicts the brutal conditions and the moral dilemmas of the rebels, as well as the split between those who accept the treaty that creates the Irish Free State and those who oppose it. The film is a gripping and tragic portrayal of a turbulent period in Irish history, with a superb performance by Murphy as the conflicted protagonist.
30. The Boxer (1997)
Director: Jim Sheridan
Actors: Daniel Day-Lewis, Emily Watson, Brian Cox, Ken Stott
This drama film is set in Belfast during the Troubles, the conflict between the Irish nationalists and the British loyalists. The film focuses on Danny, a former boxer and IRA member who returns to his old neighborhood after 14 years in prison. He tries to rebuild his life by opening a boxing club for both Catholics and Protestants, but faces opposition from his former IRA comrades and his old flame Maggie, who is married to an imprisoned IRA man. The film is a realistic and heartfelt exploration of the challenges and joys of reconciliation and redemption, with a remarkable performance by Day-Lewis as the determined hero.
31. Luck of the Irish (2001)
Director: Paul Hoen
Actors: Ryan Merriman, Henry Gibson, Alexis Lopez, Glenndon Chatman
This fantasy comedy film is about Kyle, a teenager who discovers that his family are leprechauns and that he has inherited their luck. However, when a rival leprechaun steals his lucky coin, Kyle begins to lose his luck and his heritage. He must find a way to get his coin back and restore his family’s honor. The film is a fun and lighthearted adventure, with a lot of humor and magic.
32. The Irish Pub (2013)
Director: Alex Fegan
Actors: Liam Aherne, Willie Aherne, Bobby Blackwell, Ray Blackwell
This documentary film is about the tradition and culture of the Irish pub, as told by the owners and patrons of various pubs across Ireland. The film features interviews, stories, and anecdotes that reveal the history, personality, and charm of the Irish pub. The film is a warm and engaging tribute to the Irish pub, with a lot of wit and wisdom.
33. Michael Collins (1996)
Director: Neil Jordan
Actors: Liam Neeson, Aidan Quinn, Julia Roberts, Alan Rickman
This historical biopic film is about Michael Collins, the Irish revolutionary leader who fought for Ireland’s independence from the United Kingdom in the early 20th century. The film depicts his role in the Easter Rising, the Irish War of Independence, and the Irish Civil War, as well as his personal and political relationships. The film is a gripping and tragic portrayal of a charismatic and controversial figure, with a superb performance by Neeson as the titular hero.
This documentary film features 30 Irish centenarians who share their stories, wisdom, and humor. The film covers a hundred years of Irish history, from the birth of the Irish Republic to the present day, as seen through the eyes of these remarkable elders. The film is a warm and engaging tribute to the Irish pub, with a lot of wit and wisdom.
35. Belfast (2021)
Director: Kenneth Branagh
Actors: Jude Hill, Caitríona Balfe, Judi Dench, Ciarán Hinds
This drama film is based on the childhood memories of Kenneth Branagh, who grew up in Belfast during the Troubles in the late 1960s. The film follows a young boy named Buddy and his working class family as they face the violence and uncertainty of the sectarian conflict. The film is a nostalgic and heartfelt portrait of a city and a family, with a stellar cast and a beautiful soundtrack.
36. In the Name of the Father (1993)
Director: Jim Sheridan
Actors: Daniel Day-Lewis, Emma Thompson, Pete Postlethwaite, John Lynch
This biographical drama film is based on the true story of the Guildford Four, four people who were falsely convicted of the 1974 IRA bombings in England. The film focuses on Gerry Conlon, who was tortured into confessing by the police, and his father Giuseppe, who was also imprisoned as an accessory. The film also depicts their fight for justice, with the help of lawyer Gareth Peirce. The film is a powerful and tragic portrayal of a miscarriage of justice, with superb performances by the lead actors.
37. Darby O’Gill and the Little People (1959)
Director: Robert Stevenson
Actors: Albert Sharpe, Janet Munro, Sean Connery, Jimmy O’Dea
This fantasy adventure film is about Darby O’Gill, an old storyteller who tries to catch the king of the leprechauns and get his pot of gold. The film features a lot of Irish folklore and magic, as well as a young Sean Connery as a handsome Dubliner who falls in love with Darby’s daughter. The film is a fun and charming classic, with impressive special effects and humor.
38. Calvary (2014)
Director: John Michael McDonagh
Actors: Brendan Gleeson, Chris O’Dowd, Kelly Reilly, Aidan Gillen
This drama film is about Father James, a good-hearted priest who faces a death threat from one of his parishioners during confession. The film follows his last week of life, as he tries to help his troubled flock and confront his own demons. The film is a dark and powerful exploration of faith, forgiveness, and humanity, with a superb performance by Gleeson as the tormented priest.
39. Grabbers (2012)
Director: Jon Wright
Actors: Richard Coyle, Ruth Bradley, Russell Tovey, Lalor Roddy
This horror comedy film is about a small Irish island that is invaded by bloodsucking aliens that are allergic to alcohol. The film follows the local police and residents as they try to survive by getting drunk and fighting back. The film is a hilarious and gory homage to monster movies, with a lot of action and wit.
40. In Bruges (2008)
Director: Martin McDonagh
Actors: Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, Ralph Fiennes, Clémence Poésy
This black comedy drama film is about two Irish hitmen, Ray and Ken, who are sent to Bruges, Belgium, by their boss Harry, after a botched job that resulted in the death of a child. The film follows their adventures and misadventures in the medieval city, as they await Harry’s orders and deal with their guilt and boredom. The film is a witty and violent tale of crime, redemption, and friendship, with a lot of humor and twists.
41. In America (2002)
Director: Jim Sheridan
Actors: Samantha Morton, Paddy Considine, Sarah Bolger, Emma Bolger
This drama film is based on the childhood memories of Jim Sheridan, who grew up in New York City as an Irish immigrant in the 1960s. The film follows the Sullivan family, who arrive in America with little money and a lot of dreams, and face the challenges and joys of their new life. The film is a touching and heartfelt portrait of a family and a city, with a superb performance by Morton as the mother.
42. The Guard (2011)
Director: John Michael McDonagh
Actors: Brendan Gleeson, Don Cheadle, Mark Strong, Liam Cunningham
This buddy cop comedy film is about Gerry Boyle, an unorthodox and confrontational Irish policeman, who teams up with Wendell Everett, a straight laced FBI agent, to investigate an international drug smuggling ring in rural Ireland. The film is a hilarious and action packed adventure, with a lot of cultural humor and charm. The film received critical acclaim.
Thanks for checking out our article on the best Irish movies to watch for St. Patrick’s Day.
We hope you found some suggestions to add to your movie night list!
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