Watch Song for a Raggy Boy

Set in 1939 Ireland, Song for a Raggy Boy is a gripping drama film based on the novel of the same name by Patrick Galvin. The story revolves around William Franklin (Aidan Quinn), a new teacher at St. Judes Reformatory School, where he is tasked with taming a group of delinquents known as "raggy boys." The raggy boys, led by violent and troubled teenager, Gerard Duvey (Marc Warren), are forced to endure harsh punishments, including beatings and solitary confinement, in the name of "discipline."

Franklin, however, is not the typical reformatory school teacher. He is a man who has seen the horrors of war and who understands the importance of treating children with compassion and nurturing their strength. He does not agree with the brutal tactics of the school's superintendent, Brother John (Iain Glen), and instead tries to connect with the raggy boys on a personal level.

The film explores themes of power, abuse, and rebellion, as the raggy boys fight back against the cruel and unjust treatment they receive. Through his friendship with one of the boys, Liam Mercier (Chris Newman), Franklin learns more about the boys' troubled lives and the harsh realities they face outside the walls of the school. Liam's story is particularly poignant, as he struggles with his sexuality in a society that does not accept homosexuality.

As tensions between the boys and the staff at the school escalate, the film takes a dark turn. The climax is powerful and heartbreaking, as the raggy boys finally take a stand against the brutality they have endured for years. The performances in the film are exceptional, particularly from the young cast members who portray the raggy boys.

Song for a Raggy Boy is a haunting and thought-provoking film that shines a light on a dark chapter in Irish history. It is a testament to the power of compassion, understanding, and resilience, and stands as a reminder that no child deserves to be treated with anything less.

Song for a Raggy Boy is a 2003 drama with a runtime of 93 hours. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.