Circle of Friends

REVIEW
Director O'Connor, known more for his intense dramas (Cal, A Month in the Country,) is in a sweetly romantic mood and creates a picturesque atmosphere for an improbable love story with this beguiling adaptation of Maeve Binchy's novel. Benny (Driver) could probably be called the "ugly duckling" among her group of childhood friends, and growing up in a small Irish town in the late 1950s hasn't exactly given her the opportunity for romantic or social encounters. But that's all about to change when Benny enters university and falls under the spell of the soccer team's handsome star player (O'Donnell). While "plain Jane" Cinderellas have found their Prince Charmings before, it's done so with a refreshing voice and a very grounded view of the world. Driver is wonderful as Benny, imbuing her character with sensibility and spirit. O'Donnell is believable as heartthrob, lover and Irishman.