Four Mothers (15)

★★★ Loosely inspired by a 2008 Italian picture – Gianni Di Gregorio’s Mid-August Lunch – Four ­Mothers is by no means perfect. What the breezy Irish comedy with a big heart lacks in ­storytelling smarts, however, it more than makes up for with a likeable lead and a moving turn from the great Fionnula Flanagan. ~ Irish Independent.

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Winner of the BFI London Film Festival Audience Award, this uplifting comedy-drama follows an unlikely found family on an emotionally charged journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

Edward (James McArdle), a talented novelist on the cusp of literary success, is juggling his work with the responsibility of caring for his elderly mother, Alma (Fionnula Flanagan).

As the excitement of a US book tour builds, he is suddenly faced with an unexpected twist as his three friends decide to take an impromptu Pride getaway to Spain, leaving their mothers in his care. 

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★★★★ One of the most overlooked items of good news (not a typo) last year was that a little Irish comedy-drama won the Audience Award at the BFI London Film Festival. Hardly seismic in the rolling-doom scheme of things, but nice all the same if you're an oul softie. And if you are, then you need Four Mothers as much as it needs you. ~ RTE.

★★★★ Blending humour and insight, this enjoyable Irish comedy drama features a fine ensemble that expertly brings out its characters' different personalities, beliefs and life experiences. ~ Radio Times.

★★★✭ A Thorntons’ chocolate box – for mothers of every variety. ~ Little White Lies.