Anner House

Anner House is a compelling 2007 film that flawlessly blends elements of romance, drama, and a touch of adventure, directed by Stephen Burke. With a astoundingly skilful cast headed by Liam Cunningham and Flora Montgomery, the film delves into the complexities of personal struggles, pursuit of dreams, and the inevitable collision between the two. Also featuring Conor Mullen and Amrain Ismail-Essop, Anner House is an emotion-evoking narrative that delves into the depths of human emotions and aspirations.

Set against the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Town, South Africa, the movie introduces us to the character of Neil Barry, played by Liam Cunningham. Neil is an Irishman who carries the weight of his past, haunted by a failed business and a broken relationship back in Dublin. Carrying the hope for a fresh beginning, he decides to relocate thousands of miles to Cape Town. Here, he hopes to reclaim his sense of self-worth and success by breathing life into a derelict house located on Beach Road, planning to transform it into a boutique hotel named after his mother - Anner House.

On this journey, Neil crosses paths with a vivacious local woman named Ruth Maguire, portrayed by Flora Montgomery. Ruth is a woman of strength and resilience navigating through her own tribulations. After losing her son which left her life shattered, she is ardently dedicated to the well-being and future of her younger daughter, Rowena (Amrain Ismail-Essop). The dynamic character of Ruth, who hails from Cape Flats, emerges as a grounding force in Neil’s life. Her fiercely protective nature and dogged determination to provide her daughter with opportunities reach out to something deep within Neil.

Conflicting interests arise when Ruth learns about Neil’s plans for Anner House. She perceives it as a potential threat to her daughter’s future and fights tooth and nail to keep the house from becoming a hotel, envisaging it to serve as a community center instead. Thus, the two strong-willed characters embark on an inadvertent emotional tug-of-war, both determinedly striving to harness their dreams hinged on Anner House.

Conor Mullen, who plays the role of a shifty businessman, adds another shade to the narrative. His intriguing character brings forth unexpected challenges into the mix, amplifying the intensity of an already tumultuous situation and leading towards unforeseen turns in the storyline.

As the narrative unfolds, so does the gradual understanding between the characters of Neil and Ruth. The difference in their backgrounds and the unlikely circumstances of their first encounter make their evolving relationship all the more intriguing to watch. The chemistry between Liam Cunningham and Flora Montgomery is palpable, adding a captivating charm to their on-screen interaction.

Anner House is not just a story about two people but about the dreams, struggles, and resilience of all those associated with it. Each character, from Neil and Ruth to even secondary characters such as Rowena and the shifty businessman, is nuanced and beautifully realized. Their interlacing lives form a rich tapestry of human emotions and experiences that eventually create an emotionally satisfying cinematic experience.

The stunning backdrop of Cape Town only enhances the appeal of the film. Its beautiful and vivid landscapes serve as an organic part of the narrative, much like an unspoken narrative unto itself, playing a symphony of emotions that subtly resonates with the ongoings of Anner House’s happenings.

Anner House is a film with depth, emotion, and a compelling narrative that showcases the intricate complexities of human emotions, dreams, and the sheer power of perseverance. With its engaging storyline and stellar performances, this 2007 drama creates an emotional space that continues to linger in your mind long after the credits roll.