Review: Four Letters of Love

Love moves in mystical and mysterious ways in this Irish romance, adapted from Niall Williams’s novel of the same name, “Four Letters of Love.” Starring Pierce Brosnan and Helena Bonham Carter, the story follows two families whose children’s fates are intertwined.

The central characters of the story are Nicholas (played by Fionn O’Shea) and Isabel (played by Ann Skelly). Nicholas’ father, portrayed by Pierce Brosnan, believes he has been called by God to become a painter. This life choice leads him to abandon his family in pursuit of his passion, resulting in significant hardships for Nicholas. Meanwhile, Isabel’s life takes a downturn as she is expelled from school and falls into a relationship with the wrong man.

Director Polly Steele intercuts between the two narratives throughout the movie, leaving viewers wondering when and how these stories will connect. When they finally do, a magical element emerges that powerfully conveys the themes of love, fate, and miracles.

“Four Letters of Love” is a romantic story about the journey of two people heading in different directions and how love ultimately finds its way. It is cozy, warm, and features a beautiful backdrop of the Irish Sea that adds to its fairytale quality. The story moves slowly at times, which might leave you scratching your head, but if you embrace the fantasy and overlook the mystical elements, you’ll be left with a gorgeous tale that makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside.