HANDSOME DEVIL (2016)

Summary:

Ned Roche is an artistic and sensitive outsider at a rugby-obsessed all-boys boarding school in Ireland. He finds himself an outcast, constantly ridiculed by his peers and struggling to fit into the hyper-masculine environment. His life takes an unexpected turn when he is forced to share a room with the school's star rugby player, Conor Masters, creating an immediate and palpable tension between the two polar opposites.

Despite their initial animosity, an unlikely friendship begins to blossom, fostered by their eccentric English teacher, Mr. Sherry, who encourages them to find their true voices. As Ned and Conor navigate the pressures of school life, team expectations, and the complexities of their burgeoning bond, they are forced to confront their own identities and the societal expectations placed upon them, ultimately leading to a powerful message of acceptance and individuality.

Keywords: Handsome Devil, 2016, Fionn O'Shea, Nicholas Galitzine, Andrew Scott, Comedy-drama, LGBTQ+.

Plot:

Ned Roche, a self-proclaimed "lonely gay kid" with a penchant for music and unique style, arrives at the formidable Woodhill College, an elite Irish boarding school where rugby reigns supreme. He immediately struggles to adapt, feeling alienated and picked on for his difference. His situation is complicated when he is assigned to room with Conor Masters, the school's star rugby player and a seemingly perfect embodiment of everything Ned despises about the school's jock culture. Their initial interactions are fraught with tension and mutual dislike, with Ned often retreating into himself and Conor appearing distant and guarded.

The arrival of Mr. Sherry, a charismatic and unconventional English teacher, begins to subtly shift the dynamics. He encourages Ned and Conor to collaborate on a school talent show project, sparking an unexpected connection through their shared love for music. As their friendship deepens, secrets begin to surface. Conor, despite his athletic prowess, harbours a deep passion for music and a secret about his past, while Ned finds the courage to stand up for himself. The film builds to a climactic rugby match and a powerful revelation that challenges the school's narrow-minded views, forcing both boys to publicly embrace their authentic selves and inspiring a message of tolerance and self-acceptance among their peers.

Cast (Lead Roles):

• Fionn O'Shea as Ned Roche
• Nicholas Galitzine as Conor Masters
• Andrew Scott as Dan Sherry
• Moe Dunford as Pascal O'Keeffe
• Michael McElhatton as Walter Curly

Crew:

• Director: John Butler
• Writer: John Butler
• Producer: Rebecca O'Flanagan, Robert Walpole
• Cinematography: Cathal Watters
• Editor: John O'Connor

Release Info:

• Original Release Date: 11 September 2016 (TIFF)
• Language: English
• Genre: Comedy-drama, LGBTQ+
• Running Time: 95 minutes
• Accolades: Best Irish Feature Film (Dublin Film Critics' Circle Awards), Nominated for 5 IFTA Awards (including Best Film).