What Richard Did Review

Filmmakers attempting to capture teenage dialogue can be too arch (Juno) or too reductive (American Pie). But this Irish drama nails the interaction between its largely untried cast, creating a naturalistic backdrop for the story of Richard (Jack Reynor, surely a breakout star) who seems to have the world at his feet when a drunken night out brings it tumbling down. What follows is a close look at consequence and conscience, as Richard struggles to decide on his next move. The film is sometimes too reserved in its examination of the moral quandary and blunts its own impact, but it’s still the best Irish film in some time.