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THE BASS PLAYER: A SONG FOR DAD - Irish Film Festival Boston

Somerville Theater
Somerville, MA

In this eloquent, witty homage to his father, filmmaker Niall McKay wrestles with his familys unsettling past to overcome his fear of commitment. As Niall helps his elderly father Jim, a jazz bass player, return home to Ireland, father and son revisit Nialls tumultuous childhood with an abusive, unpredictable mother and a musician father who was often on the road. Its a parallel journey into Nialls admiration for his father and his innermost doubts about love, and their conversations take on a confessional quality as they reveal their darkest moments. But the film lyrically (and sometimes limerickly) takes us full circle, capturing joyous moments of healing and celebration.

Shot in Switzerland, France, Ireland and the US, geography and the idea of home play prominent roles. Scored with Irish jazz and, particularly, Jims bass, the music is much more than a soundtrack, and the film is not unlike the tunes Jim strums as it explores and captures the nuances, tones and oscillations of life and relationships. Striking many poignant chords, the filmmakers evolving notions of family and commitment will charm and amuse. Carrie Lozano

Note: This will be a great event to invite a friend along! Buy our "All-Access" Festival Pass for only $50 ! The "All-Access" pass provides a guaranteed seat at every screening over the three days and at only $50 is great value and a great way to support the festival !

Kid Friendly: No

Dog Friendly: No

Non-Smoking: No

Wheelchair Accessible: No

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