The Honeymooners
DIR/WRI: Karl Golden • PROD: Martina Niland, Martin Brinkler • DOP: Darren Tiernan • ED: Paul Brinkler • DES: Stephen Daly • CAST: Jonathan Byrne, Alex Reid, Justine Mitchell, Conor Mullen

The Honeymooners is the debut feature film of director Karl Golden, filmed on digital camera over a period of eighteen days, shot on location in Dublin and Donegal.

It is a light-hearted romantic comedy following the exploits of David, a jilted groom who wants to drink in order to forget his predicament. He makes a deal with Claire, an airport waitress who has just been sacked and jilted on her birthday. In exchange for his now unwanted wedding ring she agrees to drive him to the rural summer house in Donegal that would have been his wedding present. After initial awkwardness, the two grow closer in a predicable way which nevertheless provides ample twists and turns for comic relief. There are some poignant moments in the film as both protagonists discover deeper truths about themselves and each other.

The Honeymooners showcases the acting talents of Alex Reid and Jonathan Byrne. Despite the fact that there was little opportunity for rehearsal, there is an obvious chemistry between them that grows deeper as the film progresses. It's refreshing to watch a romantic comedy which, for once, has new faces and Irish accents.

The quality of the film belies its micro-budget of €65,000. The cinematography and level of production are very good. The film was shot entirely on digital video and at times it's difficult to know whether the camera shake in the hand-held shots is deliberate or not. However, the 'Blair Witch style' effect often provides immediacy. A sensitive and appropriate soundtrack is provided by Niall Byrne and Ulster band Ash. At no times is the music overbearing, it enhances rather than detracts from the story.

This is certainly a film that you will enjoy watching, though it takes a little time to be drawn into the plot. Don't be put off by the camera-shaking and the occasional rough-cuts between scenes, these techniques give the film a fresh rawness reminiscent of watching a good documentary or a theatre play. The play-off between Dublin and the rest of Ireland is at times hilarious. Definitely one to see, though one can't help wondering when Hollywood will buy the rights to remake the film.

Nicola Rowan