Watch The Last of the High Kings

The Last of the High Kings is a 1996 coming-of-age film directed by David Keating, set in Dublin in the summer of 1977. The movie follows the life of a teenager named Frankie Griffin, played by Jared Leto, who is discovering his true self and identity while exploring the vibrant and colorful world around him. The film is instilled with a sense of nostalgia as it captures the feeling of being young and carefree.

The story revolves around Frankie, who lives in a dysfunctional family with a controlling mother and an absent father. He spends most of his days hanging out with his friends and dreaming of a future filled with adventures far away from his mundane life. However, his plans are put on hold when his older sister arrives back from Spain to get married.

Frankie's sister, the enigmatic and rebellious Erin, played by the actress Christina Ricci, is the catalyst that awakens Frankie's senses and sets his life on a new course. Erin's flamboyance and love for life is infectious, and she invites Frankie to experience new things with her. He is entranced by her beauty and free spirit and wants to be just like her.

The arrival of Erin also coincides with the historic visit of Pope John Paul II to Dublin, which sets the city abuzz with excitement and optimism. The event offers an opportunity for Frankie and his friends to break free from their mundane lives and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead. They are convinced that anything is possible, as long as they have each other.

The movie's themes revolve around the loss of innocence, the challenges of growing up, and the importance of friendship during the transitional phase of adolescence. The Last of the High Kings touches on topics such as divorce, death, sex, and drugs, which are common themes for a coming-of-age story. However, what sets this film apart is its unique blend of humor and tenderness, which brings a lightness and warmth to the often-clichéd storylines.

The film's ensemble cast is one of the highlights, with Catherine O'Hara playing the role of Frankie's mother, who struggles with her past and present mistakes. O'Hara's performance embodies the anxiety and fear that comes with trying to control a situation that is beyond your control. Jared Leto perfectly captures the awkwardness, confusion, and vulnerability of being a teenager. Christina Ricci brings her unique spark of energy, creativity, and charisma to the role of Erin, making her one of the most memorable characters in the film.

The cinematography is another aspect that makes The Last of High Kings stand out. The film is beautifully shot, and the camera captures the hustle and bustle of Dublin during the summer of 1977. The use of natural light and the vibrant colors of the city add to the film's overall charm and appeal.

In conclusion, The Last of the High Kings is a heartwarming and engaging film that captures the essence of growing up and discovering one's true identity. The movie is filled with memorable characters, beautiful cinematography, and a soundtrack that perfectly captures the spirit of the times. The Last of the High Kings is a must-watch for anyone who wants to relive the joys and sorrows of adolescence.

The Last of the High Kings is a 1998 drama. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.