Ailsa

Young married Dubliner Miles (Coyle) is a genealogist - he traces family trees. When a young American (Gruber) moves into a neighbouring flat, Miles becomes obsessed with her, even stealing her mail, though he hasn't the courage to introduce himself. Structured in flashbacks by award-winning novelist Joseph O'Connor, with tracts of voice-over narration, this mood piece feels uncomfortably like an illustrated novella. First-time director Breathnach does well enough, but he might be more sparing with the blue filter next time.