Photo by The Echoes of Compassion in Small Things Like These
Small Things Like These is a poignant film that delves into the uncharted territories of morality and ethics amidst the harrowing backdrop of Ireland in the 1980s. It shines a light on the character Bill Furlong, played masterfully by Cillian Murphy, an ordinary man faced with extraordinary circumstances. The film, adapted from Claire Keegan’s award-winning novel, navigates the tumultuous waters of individual action against societal indifference, particularly in relation to the shameful legacy of the Magdalene laundries.
An exploration of individual morality against societal norms.
A Harrowing Choice
At its core, the film depicts Bill’s internal struggle with a choice that has the potential to change the lives of himself and his family forever. When he discovers Sarah Redmond (Zara Devlin), a detained woman in a coal shed, he finds himself at a moral crossroads. His wife Eileen (Eileen Walsh) advises him, “If you want to get on in this life, there are things you have to ignore.” This familiar yet troubling mantra serves as a reminder of the human instinct for self-preservation. However, it raises a critical question: is ignoring injustice ever justifiable?
The reality of the Magdalene laundries is woven through the common experiences of many who lived in Ireland during that time. Between 1922 and 1996, at least 10,000 women and girls were confined in these institutions, which were characterized by forced labor, emotional and psychological abuse, and a culture of secrecy. Survivors have recounted harrowing tales of maltreatment, underlined by their lack of knowledge regarding their detainment and potential release. As one survivor chillingly noted, she was left to endure the elements outside a window during a harsh winter, a vivid depiction of the brutality these women faced.
“The laundries constitute a collective trauma I think that we all went through in the country and that we’re all still recovering from.” - Cillian Murphy
The Ripple Effects of Individual Courage
Bill’s act of defiance against Sister Mary (Emily Watson), the powerful figure governing the local institution, reverberates throughout the community. His dignified act of everyday resistance symbolizes much more than just personal courage; it confronts the complicit silence surrounding the laundries. The film’s climax shows Bill leading Sarah through the town openly, a moment that starkly contrasts with the prior environment of secrecy and fear, displaying how a single action can ripple through the fabric of society.
Yet, the film invites scrutiny concerning the balance it strikes between creative storytelling and historical accuracy. While it effectively showcases Bill’s transformation and highlights the everyday resistance displayed by individuals, it subtly glosses over the state’s role in perpetuating the existence of the laundries. The McAleese Report underscores the government’s involvement in the life of these institutions, from the entry routes to financial support.
Examining the role of the state in historical injustices.
The Historical Trade-offs of Narrative
Moreover, the film seems to intertwine the narratives of the Magdalene laundries with those of mother and baby homes, which can overshadow the intricate, varied histories of these institutions. While Small Things Like These powerfully captures the emotional and psychological turmoil of women subjected to institutional cruelty, it risks generalizing experiences that differed significantly across institutions. The existence of unmarried mothers sent to laundries for societal punishment blurs the historical boundaries that, while interconnected, must be viewed distinctly for an accurate representation.
As the film draws to a close, it leaves viewers reflecting on a collective responsibility to remember and advocate for those whose lives were devastated by such systems. Now, in an era where discussions around redress for and remembrance of Magdalene survivors are still ongoing, the film’s message resonates even louder: it is imperative that we do not turn our backs on injustice, as history may repeat itself if good people do nothing.
A Lasting Impression
Overall, Small Things Like These stands as a slow-burn reflection on the complexities of human morality, the importance of individual action, and the specters of Ireland’s past. It challenges us all to confront the uncomfortable truths about our history and implores us to foster compassion over complicity. The film is not merely a representation of a painful chapter in Ireland’s past; it serves as a call to action—a reminder that the legacy of these institutions must not be forgotten and that we each hold power in the choices we make, no matter how small.
Confronting the specters of the past, the legacy of compassion, and the cost of silence.
As we reflect on the intricate layers this film purports, it becomes clear: the fight against injustice is ongoing, and we must remain vigilant, ensuring that the voices of the marginalized are not drowned out.
For further insights into the historical aspects surrounding the Magdalene laundries, visit University of Sheffield.
