The Outrun: Film Review

A recent trip to the cinema inspired Bipolar Scotland online facilitator, Eleanor, to pen her thoughts…

Written by Eleanor Macleod

I was a little nervous about going to see the film, The Outrun, recently at the cinema. I was worried that it would make me upset or anxious, or even trigger emotions for me. However, I was surprised at my reaction –instead of feeling anxious or upset about the content (yes, some of the plot is emotionally charged), it made me feel challenged and even empowered.

Rona, the main character in the film, is played by Saoirse Ronan who is a fantastic actress and portrays brilliantly what it must feel like to be out of control with alcohol issues. Her sheer determination and strength really shine throughout the film and it made me think how desperately hard it must be to have an alcohol issue born out of adverse childhood experiences and also have a father who is very ill with bipolar. Not an easy mix to deal with on a daily basis.

Interestingly, we only see a small glimpse of her father’s bipolar and although brief, what is shown seems to be a fairly accurate picture of what bipolar can be like for people.

THE OUTRUN SYNOPSIS

After a decade away in London, 29-year-old Rona (Saoirse Ronan) returns home to the Orkney Islands. Sober but lonely, she tries to suppress her memory of the events which set her on this journey of recovery. Slowly the beauty and lore of the land enters her inner world and – one day at a time – Rona finds hope and strength in herself among the heavy gales and the bracingly cold sea.

Adapted from the book written by Amy Liptrot.

For Rona, her father’s bipolar was very difficult to manage and this film gives an insight of a carer’s view. Rona bravely confronts her alcoholism, realises that it will always be a temptation, and her rational mind wins in the end. She braves the elements and goes back to her roots in beautiful Orkney.

An amazing film of bravery, sadness and challenges, some of which none of us will experience. It will open your eyes and ignite hope that a new life is possible with courage and passion.

A must see for all!