Lamb (1986)

Lamb Poster

Michael Lamb is a Father questioning his calling, in a Reform School in Ireland. When young epileptic runaway Eoin is sent to the school, the two recognise kindred spirits and escape to London together. With the police on their tail and the money running out however, Lamb is forced to make some terrible decisions.

Overview of "Lamb" (1986)
"Lamb" is a 1986 Irish drama film directed by Colin Gregg and based on an unique by Bernard MacLaverty, who likewise wrote the film's movie script. The movie stars Liam Neeson, in among his early functions, as Brother Sebastian (Michael Lamb in civilian life), a priest in a Catholic reformatory school in Ireland. The story explores themes of faith, morality, and the complexities of human relationships as it checks out the turbulent journey of the primary character.

Plot and Characters
The narrative centers around Brother Sebastian, a young priest, who is questioning his faith and the institutional practices of the church-run reformatory. The school is a bleak place, filled with discipline and devoid of empathy, and it is planned to reform the delinquent boys sent there. Sibling Sebastian forms a close bond with a ten-year-old boy called Owen Kane, played by Hugh O'Conor. Owen is epileptic and typically gets particularly extreme treatment from the other siblings, which further troubles Brother Sebastian.

Following the unexpected inheritance of some cash from his dad's death, Brother Sebastian decides to act on his doubts and his disillusionment with the system. He feels a strong paternal impulse toward Owen and a deep desire to rescue him from the oppressive environment. In an impulsive and illegal relocation, Brother Sebastian takes the boy away from the reformatory and attempts to offer a better life for him in other places.

The Escape
The film tracks their escape as Sebastian, who now introduces himself as "Michael", takes Owen to London. Throughout their journey, the two form a much deeper bond, with Michael handling the role of a daddy figure. Their relationship is one of the couple of sources of heat and empathy in the story. Even as they avert the authorities, the experiences they have together enable both characters to enjoy a semblance of flexibility and normalcy.

Nevertheless, in spite of the purity of his objectives, Michael's choice to abduct Owen puts him on the incorrect side of the law, making the specter of their pursuit ever-present.

Conclusion and Themes
Ultimately, the film handles the stark truth of the consequences of Michael's choices. Confronted with a difficult scenario, Michael makes a series of remarkable choices that highlight the ethical quagmire and psychological turmoil he experiences. His individual crisis of faith and his strong protective sensations for Owen lead him to a tragic conclusion, underscoring the complex nature of his ethical convictions and the uncompromising realities of the world.

The film's ending is mournful and thought-provoking, leaving the audience to ponder the subtleties of right and wrong, the power characteristics within the church, and the societal treatment of marginalized individuals.

Important Reception
"Lamb" was favored by critics for its powerful efficiencies, especially by Liam Neeson and Hugh O'Conor, the emotional story, and its taking on of difficult subject matter. The movie analyzes the intricacies of individual responsibility, the questioning of authority, and the pursuit of redemption, set against a backdrop of religious and socio-political commentary. It is a poignant story of connection and sacrifice, offering a dramatic exploration of the human condition.

Top Cast

  • Liam Neeson (small)
    Liam Neeson
    Michael Lamb
  • Hugh O'Conor (small)
    Hugh O'Conor
    Owen Kane
  • Ian Bannen (small)
    Ian Bannen
    Brother Benedict
  • Harry Towb (small)
    Harry Towb
    Priest
  • Frances Tomelty (small)
    Frances Tomelty
    Mrs. Kane
  • Ian McElhinney (small)
    Ian McElhinney
    Maguire
  • Ronan Wilmot
    Brother Fintan
  • Denis Carey
    Mr. Lamb
  • Eileen Kennally
    Neighbour Woman
  • David Gorry
    O'Donnell
  • Andrew Pickering
    Murphy