Watch Mystics

Mystics is an Irish comedy film released in 2003, directed by David Blair. The film is set in Dublin and features seasoned actors Milo O'Shea and David Kelly, along with Maria Doyle Kennedy. This whimsical and humorous narrative is woven around two aging con men and their exploits in the land of the living and their touches with the afterlife.

The movie opens with the introduction of the charming old rogues, Dave and Locky. Played by the inimitable Milo O'Shea and David Kelly, respectively, these two characters are partners in a rather peculiar form of entrepreneurship—they run a fake séance parlor. Their modus operandi is simple yet effective: Dave claims to be a medium who can communicate with the dearly departed, while Locky supports the act with special effects hidden from the participants, selling solace and purported messages from the other side to the grieving and desperate. This unholy enterprise is both a source of income and a game to the ageing pair, who seem more interested in the thrill of the scam than in the money.

As the story unfolds, we get a glimpse of the world that Dave and Locky have built. The parlor, meticulously staged with props and tricks, is their playground, and they approach each "performance" with a mix of reverence for the theatricality and a sardonic understanding of the inherent deceit. Dave, with a twinkle in his eye, feigns spiritual connections, while Locky works the pulleys and levers with the finesse of a seasoned stagehand. They’re a double act with perfect timing, born from years of companionship and mutual understanding.

Maria Doyle Kennedy's character brings a fresh dynamic to the film. She acts as a counterbalance to the somewhat ethical dubiousness of Dave and Locky's occupation, providing a voice of reason and a touch of sincerity. As the movie progresses, her interactions with the elder characters stir both comedic moments and soul-searching reflections, displaying the complexities and richness of human relationships.

The humor in Mystics shifts seamlessly between slapstick and the more subtle, character-driven kind. The whimsy unfolds as Dave and Locky bicker and joke like an old married couple, speaking volumes of their friendship and reliance on one another. Yet, there is also a poignant undercurrent to their camaraderie, hinting at themes of mortality and the significance of legacy; these funnymen are acutely aware that their act is nearing its final curtain.

While the story is firmly grounded in the fantastical set-up of the séance business, the film also paints a vivid picture of Dublin's local atmosphere. Viewers can expect to be treated to shots of the city's historic pubs, quaint streets, and the typical Irish banter that resonates with authenticity and charm. The setting solidly anchors the narrative in a place that is at once both homely and slightly out of the ordinary.

As the film builds towards its climax, Dave and Locky’s journey becomes not only about outwitting their customer base but also about confronting their own pasts, their relationships, and their beliefs about what happens after someone passes away. Their bravado is tested, and their bond becomes more poignant as they navigate the various situations and dilemmas thrown their way.

The supernatural element in the movie is played for laughs rather than scares, and the cheeky script capitalizes on the premise with spirited dialogue and amusing set pieces. The interplay between the supernatural and the mundane gives a fantastical twist to what at its heart is a reflection on age, friendship, and the end of the road.

Mystics is not just a movie about a couple of old con men trying to pull off a scam. It’s a story full of heart, with a look at life from the perspective of those who have seen much of it pass by. O'Shea and Kelly deliver performances that are a highlight of their extensive careers, marking this film with quality acting and a sense of gravitas that balances the comedic tone.

In essence, Mystics is an oddball comedy that offers something slightly different from the usual genre fare. Audiences can expect chuckles, reflective moments, and a trip through the lovely scenery and characterful locations of Dublin. The film is a lighthearted caper that goes beyond the antics of its leading characters to touch upon universal themes that resonate with viewers long after the credits roll.