Watch Rory's Way

Rory's Way, also known as The Etruscan Smile, is a heartfelt drama film that boasts some excellent performances from its cast. Directed by Oded Binnun and Mihal Brezis, it is an adaptation of the book La sonrisail Etrusca by José Luis Sampedro. The movie follows 84-year-old Rory MacNeil (Brian Cox), a bitter and gruff Scotsman who has spent his entire life living in the remote Hebridean island of Vallasay. He is a fisherman who is distinctly unimpressed by modern technology and spends his time with his dog, whom he considers to be his only true friend. However, when he is diagnosed with terminal cancer, Rory becomes determined to reconnect with his long-estranged son Ian (JJ Feild), who has moved to San Francisco to pursue a career as an artist.

After reluctantly heading to California, Rory finds himself struggling to adjust to his new surroundings and Ian's brand of bohemian art world, which is far removed from his own more traditional way of life. Despite their estrangement, Rory is intent on getting to know his son and making amends for past mistakes.

In San Francisco, Rory meets his daughter-in-law Emily (Thora Birch), an aspiring chef who is struggling to balance her career with the ongoing demands of caring for her young daughter. Emily is initially suspicious of Rory, but as they spend time together, she begins to warm to him and even helps him to reconnect with Ian.

Along the way, Rory also becomes involved with Claudia (Rosanna Arquette), a quirky artist who takes a liking to him after they meet at an art exhibition. Through his relationships with these new people in his life, Rory begins to confront his own prejudices and stubbornness, and ultimately discovers what is truly important to him.

Brian Cox delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Rory, bringing real depth to a character who could easily have been unlikeable. He captures the character's bitterness and gruffness, but also conveys his vulnerability and yearning to reconnect with his son. Thora Birch is also excellent as Emily, imbuing her character with a mix of strength and vulnerability that makes her feel like a real person, rather than a mere plot device.

The movie takes a slow and steady pace, allowing plenty of time for the characters to develop and the relationships to evolve. This may frustrate some viewers looking for more drama or action, but for those willing to invest in the characters, it is a rewarding experience.

One of the film's most striking elements is the contrast between the rugged beauty of Vallasay and the urban sprawl of San Francisco. The cinematography does an excellent job of capturing both, with sweeping vistas of the Scottish coast and more intimate, atmospheric shots of the San Francisco streets and skyline.

Overall, Rory's Way is a moving and heartfelt drama that benefits from strong performances and a thoughtful approach to storytelling. It is a movie about family, forgiveness, and the importance of living life on your own terms, and is well worth seeking out.