Bring Them Down

Directed by: Chris Andrews

Starring: Christopher Abbott and Barry Keoghan

Hillside views, spray-painted sheep, and decapitated heads only scratch the surface of what Bring Them Down explores in its story. Michael O’Shea (Christopher Abbott) portrays a sheep farmer who, alongside his father, Ray (Colm Meaney), is forced into a psychological battle with their hillside neighbors, Jack (Barry Keoghan) and Gary (Paul Ready).

The rugged landscapes of rural Ireland establish the film’s setting, while the opening sequences lay the groundwork for the themes that unravel throughout. A nonlinear timeline offers glimpses into the perspectives of our leads, exposing the commonalities they may be too blinded by conflict to recognize. Masculinity is challenged and questioned as these two neighboring families attempt to outmaneuver and deceive one another.

Beneath it all lies a deeper exploration of familial and generational trauma—how the separation of family can shape an individual, the desperate lengths it can push a person to, and the unintended parallels in behavior between those closest to you, both in proximity and emotional ties.

Nora-Jane Noone rounds out the spectacular cast as Caroline, the wife of Gary. As the only woman in the film, she cements herself as the voice of reason, a stark contrast to the warring male egos at the heart of this slow-burning, tension-filled drama.