Wild Mountain Thyme

Movie Trailer

Release Date
December 11, 2020

Genre
Romantic Drama, Comedy

Cast & Crew

• Emily Blunt as Rosemary Muldoon
• Jamie Dornan as Anthony Reilly
• Jon Hamm as Adam Kelly
• Christopher Walken as Tony Reilly
• Dearbhla Molloy as Aoife Muldoon

Director
John Patrick Shanley

Other Movies Director is Known For:

• Doubt (2008)
• Joe Versus the Volcano (1990)

Producer
Anthony Bregman, Michael Helfant, Bradley Gallo, Martina Niland, Alex Witchel

Writer
John Patrick Shanley, based on his play Outside Mullingar

Budget
$5.5 million

Production Company
Likely Story, Mar-Key Pictures, Port Pictures

Running Time
102 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
PG-13

Content Advisory

• Mild language
• Themes of love and family

Movie Story
“Wild Mountain Thyme” is a romantic drama set in the picturesque countryside of Ireland, filled with quirky characters, unspoken love, and familial disputes. The film centers on two neighboring farmers, Rosemary Muldoon (Emily Blunt) and Anthony Reilly (Jamie Dornan), who have known each other all their lives. Despite their deep affection for one another, Anthony, an awkward and shy man, is oblivious to Rosemary’s feelings and remains stubbornly resistant to love, much to Rosemary’s frustration.

The tension between them is heightened by a long-standing family feud over a small strip of land that separates their farms. Anthony’s father, Tony Reilly (Christopher Walken), disapproves of his son’s solitary nature and questions whether Anthony is capable of running the family farm. Tony even contemplates selling the farm to Anthony’s American cousin, Adam Kelly (Jon Hamm), a wealthy businessman who takes an interest in Rosemary.

As the story unfolds, Rosemary struggles with her unrequited love while Anthony grapples with his own insecurities and fears of rejection. The film explores the complexities of love, identity, and the connection to one’s homeland, all set against the backdrop of Ireland’s lush, rolling landscapes. The characters are bound by tradition, family expectations, and a deep connection to the land they call home.

“Wild Mountain Thyme” is a tale of missed opportunities, longing, and the hope that love, in its own time, will find a way. The film balances its romantic elements with light-hearted humor and a touch of whimsy, capturing the charm and eccentricity of rural life in Ireland.

Special Effects
The special effects in “Wild Mountain Thyme” are minimal, as the film relies more on its stunning natural setting and the performances of its cast to convey the story’s emotional depth. The cinematography, by Stephen Goldblatt, is a standout element, beautifully capturing the verdant landscapes of Ireland, the changing seasons, and the quaint charm of the characters’ surroundings. The film’s visual style complements its romantic and lyrical tone, with the rolling hills, misty fields, and ancient stone walls serving as both a backdrop and a character in the story.

Box Office Performance
“Wild Mountain Thyme” had a limited theatrical release and was also made available on-demand due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The film received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the performances, particularly those of Emily Blunt and Christopher Walken, while others found fault with the film’s pacing and the sometimes whimsical, implausible nature of the plot. The film’s depiction of Irish culture and its romanticized view of rural life also sparked some debate among audiences. Despite the mixed reception, it found a niche audience, particularly among fans of romantic dramas and those drawn to its picturesque setting.

Filming Locations

• County Mayo, Ireland
• County Westmeath, Ireland
• County Dublin, Ireland

Notable Quotes

• “These green fields, and the animals living off them… I’ve had these dreams since I was a child.” – Anthony Reilly
• “If I’d been given a different life, I’d have never loved you.” – Rosemary Muldoon

Behind-the-Scenes
“Wild Mountain Thyme” is written and directed by John Patrick Shanley, adapted from his own Tony Award-winning play Outside Mullingar. The film retains much of the play’s dialogue-driven narrative, focusing on the interactions between the characters and their personal dilemmas. Emily Blunt and Jamie Dornan lead the cast, bringing both warmth and complexity to their roles as the star-crossed lovers. The film’s production took place in various locations across Ireland, with the filmmakers aiming to capture the country’s natural beauty and the unique atmosphere of rural Irish life. The film’s score, composed by Amelia Warner, enhances its romantic and whimsical qualities, adding to the overall charm of the story.

Awards
“Wild Mountain Thyme” did not receive major awards but was noted for its cinematography and the performances of its lead actors, particularly Emily Blunt.

Final Verdict
“Wild Mountain Thyme” is a charming, if somewhat unconventional, romantic drama that will appeal to viewers who enjoy stories of unrequited love, family dynamics, and the beauty of the Irish countryside. The film’s mix of romance, humor, and whimsy, combined with strong performances from Emily Blunt and Jamie Dornan, make it an engaging, though sometimes perplexing, watch. While it may not resonate with everyone, those who appreciate a blend of lyrical storytelling and picturesque settings will find something to enjoy in “Wild Mountain Thyme.”

IMDb Rating
5.7/10