Barber Movie Review

The setting of Fintan Connolly’s “Barber” in Dublin is characterized by a chilling, insular, and claustrophobic atmosphere. The streets are narrow, the rooms are dark, and the bars are even darker, creating an airless environment. Despite the penthouse apartment of private investigator Val Barber offering a terrace with a view, it fails to provide any sense of space or freedom. In this tightly-knit community, everyone knows each other, and long-held secrets remain buried for years. The grudges held by individuals are deeply entrenched and seemingly impossible to resolve.

Taking place during the initial months of the Covid lockdown, the concept of “social distancing” weighs heavily on the minds of the characters in “Barber.” The frequent use of Zoom calls is seen as a novelty during this time. The portrayal of Dublin, and indeed Ireland, in the film reflects a struggle between the past and the present. The tension along old fault lines is palpable, adding to the underlying unease.

These elements serve as the wordless background noise of the film, surpassing the actual crime being investigated by the disheveled and tormented Barber, portrayed by Aidan Gillen. The central plot revolves around the disappearance of a 20-year-old girl, and the Garda, the local police force, are perceived as corrupt and potentially involved in a cover-up. In desperation, the girl’s grandmother turns to Barber, seeking his assistance in uncovering the truth. As Barber delves deeper into the investigation, he finds himself navigating unsavory locations and encountering individuals in positions of power. However, there are numerous individuals who vehemently oppose Barber’s pursuit of these leads. He faces harassment and encounters a wall of institutional silence, forcing him to rely on a whisper network of frightened witnesses who are hesitant to cooperate.

The year is 2020, and “Barber” captures the complexities and challenges of this particular time period.