Small Things Like These is set to captivate audiences as it makes its debut in theaters on November 8th, following its successful run at prestigious film festivals. Directed by Tim M. and starring Oscar-winner Cillian Murphy and acclaimed actress Emily Watson, this adaptation brings a powerful and deeply personal story of grief, moral conflict, and historical injustice to life.

The film centers on a coal merchant in a small Irish town who witnesses an injustice involving a young woman near a local monastery. As he grapples with his conscience, he must decide whether to take a stand or remain silent, confronting his own buried grief in the process.
Director Tim M., known for his work on Peaky Blinders and Legion, was drawn to the project through his collaboration with Cillian Murphy, who shared the story with him. The film’s development was influenced by Tim’s own experience with delayed grief, adding a deeply personal touch to the storytelling.

In an interview, Tim discussed his unique approach to the film, utilizing intimate close-up shots and minimal dialogue to portray the complex emotions etched on Murphy’s face, allowing viewers to experience the depth of his internal struggle. This cinematographic choice, inspired by spiritual and observational filmmaking, aims to engage the audience as silent witnesses to the unfolding drama.
The story, based on a 28-page novella, is a historical fiction inspired by real events linked to the Magdalene Laundries in Ireland, where young women faced mistreatment and marginalization. Although Tim approached the subject as an outsider, he was guided by Irish historians and locals to ensure the authenticity of this sensitive history. The film raises a compelling moral question: if we remain silent, are we complicit?
Small Things Like These is a story of quiet resilience, personal responsibility, and the courage to confront the past. For audiences, it’s not just a historical tale but a reminder that these themes resonate across generations and borders. The film’s restrained, haunting approach offers a unique cinematic experience that audiences at the Heartland Film Festival and beyond are sure to appreciate.