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Its scores on the review aggregate siteRotten Tomatoesare a clear testament to that.

Buddy also spends time with his loving grandmother (Judi Dench) and wise grandfather (Ciaran Hinds).

Jamie Dornan as Pa in "Belfast"

Its a love letter to not just Belfast but childhood as well.

Belfast also explores Northern Irelands troubled history.

The movie opens with an intense scene during the August 1969 riots.

Jude Hill as Buddy in “Belfast”

It’s emblematic of the region.

Northern Ireland has a difficult past but is resilient and full of life.

The movie is also frequently hilarious, with sharp writing and great performances throughout.

(L-R) Caitríona Balfe as Ma, Jamie Dornan as Pa, Judi Dench as Granny, Jude Hill as Buddy and Lewis McAskie as Will in “Belfast”

Young Jude Hill is especially impressive, but the whole cast brings their A-game.

Presented in a stunning black-and-white color scheme, “Belfast” has a hazy, nostalgic quality.

This perfectly fits the overall tone.

Caitríona Balfe as Ma in “Belfast”

Its also surprisingly striking in several moments, including during the numerous riot scenes.

Plus, the musical score is marvelous.

Composed by Belfast native Van Morrison, it always hits all the right notes and adds emotional depth.

(L-R) Jamie Dornan as Pa and Caitríona Balfe as Ma in “Belfast”

But you donthaveto be linked to the region to enjoy what Kenneth Branagh has created.

OnRotten Tomatoes, Belfast has scored an impressive 86% from more than 330 reviews.

Thats more than enough for a Certified Fresh seal of approval.

(L-R) Judi Dench as Granny, Jude Hill as Buddy and Ciarán Hinds as Pop in “Belfast”

Meanwhile, the movies viewer score is even higher at a whopping 92%.

One review labels the movie lovely and nostalgic while another calls it a story with a lot of heart.

Another declares that it should have won best picture at the 94th Academy Awards in 2023.

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The flick was also nominated for a slew of Golden Globe Awards, Critic Choice and BAFTA awards.

It makes me feel warm every single time I watch it.

And its without question one of the strongest movies set in Ireland released over the past decade.

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I implore you to look no further if youre looking for the perfect St. Patricks Day stream.

This gives the movie an extra dramatic element making it all the more compelling.

Want even more options?

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Then check out our guide to the best Irish TV shows that make for perfect St. Patricks Day binge-watching.

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