The Van (1997)

THE VAN is the third installment of Roddy Doyle's "Barrytown Tril-
ogy," after THE SNAPPER (1993) and THE COMMITTMENTS (1991).  Colm 
Meaney and Donal O'Kelly star as two best buds, one recently un-
employed (O'Kelly) and the other perpetually so (Meaney), whose 
best friendship is strained by a business venture involving a mo-
bile fish 'n' chips 'n' burgers stand.  Though the story is too 
episodic, there's plenty of local color, more than a little slap-
stick, and, of course, Meaney's unending stream of obscenities.  
Funny stuff and perhaps funnier if you can understand more than 25% 
of the dialogue for focks sake.  Directed by Stephen Frears (MARY 
REILLY, THE SNAPPER).  (Rated "R"/96 min.)

Grade: B-

Copyright 1997 Michael J. Legeros
Movie Hell is a trademark of Michael J. Legeros