THE SECRET OF ROAN INISH (1994)

what if magic were real?

Are you into indie films? Do you listen to Van Morrison, have a crush on Paul Mescal, or wear thick wool fishermen’s sweaters in the winter? Do you go to the Oregon coast and fantasize that the seals are talking to you? If so, you will likely enjoy The Secret of Roan Inish.

No, Van Morrison did not compose the soundtrack (though it is amazing: all harp, fiddle and wailing Irish bagpipes), and (spoiler alert!) Paul Mescal isn’t in it, but it’s set in Ireland! In 1946! Directed by John Sayles (Return of the Secaucus 7, Lone Star, Williams College Class of ‘72), it’s filmed in Donegal and steeped in atmosphere and Irish folklore.

The movie spins tales about selkies (magical creatures who masquerade as seals) and the liminal space where humans and wild creatures connect. There’s not much of a plot, but let’s just say there’s a happy ending that requires you to suspend your disbelief, which we promise you will happily do. It will make you feel like a kid again! It's quiet, it’s foggy, it’s beautiful. Don’t think about it. Just let the magic wash over you. It feels good.

FOR FANS OF: Seals and children, in that order

PAIRS WELL WITH: A hearty fish chowder

FIND IT ON: Hulu