Mr. Movie's review of "Secret of Roan Inish"

The Secret of Roan Inish

John Sayles is one of the best writer/directors of all time.

Unless you’re a film fanatic, most have never heard of Sayles. His résumé includes exceptional films like Matewan, Passion Fish, The Brother from Another Planet and Eight Men Out.

Sayles still doesn’t ring a bell? Catch The Secret of Roan Inish and introduce yourself to an American movie secret. Some say it’s his best film, and that’s hard to argue against.

A 10-year-old Irish girl tries to solve the mystery of the deserted island, Roan Inish. Legend says her family has Selkie blood in its veins. Selkies are half-human, half-seal.

Sayles’ movies are filled with layered characters, believable, everyday problems and unusual solutions. Roan Inish shows off his textured, patient storytelling style. He slowly unfolds the mystery of the girl’s family and its connection to the island.

At the same time, Sayles keeps enough to himself that you have to come to your own conclusions — conclusions you’ll be debating for days, maybe years, to come.

Mr. Movie rating: 5 stars.

Rated PG for mature themes. It plays tonight only at the Battelle Auditorium at 8 p.m.