“8.5 Hours”–Looking at the Irish

“8.5 Hours”

Looking at the Irish

Amos Lassen

Set in Ireland in 2007, director Brian Lally gives us characters studies of four workers in the software industry. Each of the characters is moving toward a point that will change his life forever. In the course of one work day, lives will be turned upside down and inside out. Each of our characters is on the verge of losing his financial security and will do whatever it takes to make sure that they stay above water. Sometimes this can involve the use of blackmail, untruths and scandal. The film takes place during a period when Ireland was on high ground economically and the movie shows us what ordinary, regular workers will do to gain wealth and power.

Mixing drama and black comedy, we gain insights into our characters during the course of one business day. There are twists and surprises all along the way and our four characters deal with the issues of sex, ambition and betrayal. As each character watches his life take a downward turn, we are brought into a fight for survival that is very rewarding. The ending will stay with you for a very long time.