There are a number of shorts programs here at the 2008 Tribeca Film Festival, and one, titled "Cold Feet," was a standout mainly due to the stunning "Irish Twins." Rider Strong ("Cabin Fever," "Borderland") and his brother Shiloh ("CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," "The Mirror") wrote, directed, and star in this brilliant tale of familial loss and revenge.
Brothers Michael Sullivan (Rider) and Seamus Sullivan (Shiloh) are planted firmly on their barstools, contemplating what to do with their father's ashes and recounting past wrongs. "Irish Twins" is a generally pejorative term which refers to brothers born less than a year apart -- you do the math. How each brother views the label and to what extent they embrace it is at the heart of their fractured relationship.. Told through flashbacks, the story takes shape slowly at first, winding up with a shocker ending that is totally unexpected.
The film clearly depends on the performances of the two young men and, as brothers in real life, it's obvious from the start that the Strongs are certainly up to the task. "Irish Twins" looks like a labor of love from the opening title to closing credits, with emotions that jump out of the screen and grab the viewer by the throat.
One of the the biggest surprises is that "Irish Twins," if not for its short length, has the technical quality of a major motion picture. The widescreen format and cinematography are second to none. Stunning visuals wowed me from the start, with glowing neon and angelic white lights surrounding the lead characters. Watch for the long take in the first bar scene -- it took my breath away.
The smart script is filled with clever quips. Seamus' weak attempt at an Irish accent is described as more of an "autistic pirate" by brother Michael. The Strongs prove that actors can not only direct but they can write, too. "Irish Twins" is an auspicious directorial debut and calling card for Rider and Shiloh Strong which leaves the audience nodding their heads with appreciation for work well done.
