Destiny brings young lovers together in this heart-tugging romance set in rural Ireland in the 70s and 80s. Based on the bestselling novel by Niall Williams, it stars Pierce Brosnan (above) as a father who impulsively quits his desk job to become an artist. The impact on his wife and son is huge, and while son Nicholas (Finn O'Shea) is initially angry at his pa, the narration from his older self is a poignant reflection on the impact his father's actions had on him.

Meanwhile, a couple (Helena Bonham Carter and Gabriel Byrne) live on a remote island. When they send their daughter Isabel (Ann Skelly) to school on the mainland, she falls for a local lad, but there is something missing in her life. Could it be Nicholas, even though they haven't yet met?

Williams's novel was first published in 1997, and he's ably adapted it for this screenplay. Even if you know where the story is heading, that's part of its charm: this is all about fate, faith and love. The characters are a pleasure to spend time with. Nicholas is kind, artistic; Isabel is spirited and rebellious. You'll be willing for them to meet.

Bonham Carter and Byrne make for a convincing couple - loving yet contrasting.

She's pragmatic and cynical; he's a dreamer and a poet. Their relationship is tested when their son (Dónal Finn) falls ill.

Watching the two families deal with their heartbreaks is sad at times, but the narration and score imbue the film with a sense of hope.

It's a classy weepie with strong performances as well as stunning vistas of the Irish coast.

Best watched with hankies and an open heart.