By: Lana K. Wilson-Combs
Discussing sickness and death with children can be challenging, but the new animated film
"A Greyhound of a Girl" bravely tackles these sensitive topics with grace and warmth.
Directed and co-written by
Enzo D'Alo ("Pinocchio") and
Dave Ingham (TV's "The Rubbish World of Dave Spud"), this charming, smart Irish tale is adapted from
Roddy Doyle's acclaimed 2011 novel of the same name.
In "A Greyhound of a Girl," Mia O'Connor (debut role) lends her voice to Mary, an energetic 11-year-old with aspirations of becoming a chef. Passionate about food and a natural in the kitchen, Mary dreams of culinary greatness. Her loving but overprotective parents, Scarlett (Sharon Horgan, TV's "Disenchantment") and father, Paddy (Brendan Gleeson, "Joker: Folie A Deux" and "The Banshees of Inisherin") adore her and do their best to nurture her ambitions.
Recently, however, Mary has been spending a lot of time with her ailing grandmother Emer (from TV's "The Headacres"), whose warmth and wisdom provide a comforting presence during a turbulent time.
Emer not only understands Mary's dreams but actively encourages her to pursue them. She inspires Mary to enter one of her signature dishes in the prestigious Ballymalone Cooking School, igniting a fire in the young girl.
However, when Mary learns that her grandmother's health is deteriorating, her world begins to crumble. Struggling with the reality of loss, she becomes rebellious and distant, often retreating to her room to process her emotions.
Amid her turmoil, Mary encounters Tansey (Charlene McKenna, TV's "Vienna Blood"), the ghost of her great-grandmother. Tansey serves as a comforting guide, sharing stories from the past and offering reassurance. Her presence adds a magical element to the story, as she explains the meaning behind the film's title. Tansey's invisible nature raises concern for Mary's mother, who worries about her daughter's mental state. She suggests that Mary see a doctor to discuss her feelings. Mary insists she's fine, but reluctantly agrees to the appointment. However, the doctor's attempts to connect with her are met with resistance.
As the story unfolds, "A Greyhound of a Girl" beautifully captures the complexities of family, loss, and the power of dreams. The animation is vibrant, effectively reflecting the warmth and humor inherent in Mary's journey. The film's gentle approach to difficult topics makes it a valuable conversation starter for both children and adults.
The dynamics within Mary's family are poignantly depicted, showcasing the love and tension--even with her older brothers-- that often accompany caregiving. Scarlett's overprotectiveness contrasts with Mary's yearning for independence, creating relatable moments for viewers.
Additionally, the relationship between Mary and her grandmother Emer adds emotional depth, illustrating how shared passions can bridge generational gaps.
The voice performances are standout too, with O'Connor bringing Mary's character to life with infectious energy and heart. Horgan and McKenna also deliver touching portrayals.
Ultimately, "A Greyhound of a Girl" is a heartfelt exploration of grief and the importance of following one's dreams, wrapped in a charming, animated package.
Whether you’re a child or an adult, this film offers valuable lessons about resilience, family connections, and the healing power of food. It's a delightful watch, reminding us that even in the face of loss, love and passion can endure.
Editor's Note: Be sure to catch my N2Entertainment.net movie talk segment on the Kitty O'Neal Show Fridays now at 5:17 p.m. and 6:47 p.m. on radio station KFBK 93.1 FM and 1530 AM.
Look At This Trailer For
"A GREYHOUND OF A GIRL"
Lana K. Wilson-Combs is a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association (BFCA), The American Film Institute (AFI), and a Nominating Committee Voting Member for the NAACP Image Awards.
