Case Study 2: Garage

In this 2007 movie, written by Mark O'Halloran and directed by Lenny Abrahamson, we are introduced to Josie (played wonderfully by Pat Shortt) a lonely garage assistant working in a small Irish town. He lives a mundane life and when he isn't working at the garage he spends his time in the pub with his "friends" who mock him and his simplified way of thinking. Although there seems to be little to celebrate in his life, Josie seems happy and optimistic.

A 15 year old boy, David (played by Conor Ryan) is hired to work alongside Josie in the petrol station and the two begin a friendship of sorts. As the pair become closer, Josie begins to supply the minor with booze. Josie steps overboard when he shows pornagraphic material to David. After he is approached by the Gardaí, Josie commits suicide.

What makes this film so poignant is the spectacular portrayel of Josie by Pat Shortt. Shortt is more used to featuring in comedies, such as D'Unbelievables but fits in to the simple sadness that is Josie's life. Watch Pat Shortt's portrayel at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjWEXoNwpow

Another great collaboration between Mark O'Halloran and Lenny Abrahamson, the same team behind Adam and Paul.