What Richard Did

Synopsis

What Richard Did is a gripping, character-driven drama that delves into the complexities of adolescence and the burden of consequences. Set in Dublin, the film follows Richard, a promising young athlete played by Jack Reynor, who appears to have a perfect life filled with friends, family, and a bright future ahead. However, a fateful night changes everything when a moment of reckless decision-making leads down a path of guilt and self-discovery. As Richard grapples with the fallout from his actions, the film explores themes of morality, identity, and the difficulty of coming of age in a world filled with expectations. The narrative elegantly portrays the inner turmoil of a young man faced with the reality of his choices, ultimately leading to a powerful reflection on the nature of responsibility and the stark realities of growing up. With its compelling performances and thoughtful screenplay, What Richard Did captivates audiences with its emotionally charged storytelling and profound character exploration.

Cast

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  Jack Reynor

  Richard Karlsen

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  Roisin Murphy

  Lara Hogan

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  Fionn Walton

  Cian Fox

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  Gavin Drea

  Stephen O'Brien

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  Patrick Gibson

  Jake

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  Sam Keeley

  Conor Harris

Reviews

What Richard Did has garnered attention for its authentic portrayal of youth and its deep thematic content. The film holds a commendable rating of 91% on Rotten Tomatoes, which reflects critics' appreciation of its nuanced storytelling. The Irish Independent praised it, stating, "it’s a film that captivates from start to finish, shedding light on the dark corners of moral dilemmas faced by today’s youth." IMDb users have rated it 6.3/10, indicating a mixed mainstream reception, yet often highlighting Reynor's transformative performance. Metacritic scored the film at 80/100, denoting generally favorable reviews. The Guardian described it as "a finely crafted character study that leaves a lasting impact" while acknowledging its slow pacing at times. In contrast, some audience members pointed out its subdued narrative could be off-putting for those expecting a more conventional thriller. Overall, What Richard Did is recognized as a thought-provoking piece that resonates with viewers grappling with the essence of youth and responsibility, inviting deep reflection on the crossroads of life.