15 of The Best Irish Movies of All Time [2024]

Ireland, a land rich in culture and history, has given the world a treasure trove of cinematic gems that resonate far beyond its shores.

In this exploration of the best Irish movies of all time, we delve into a diverse array of narratives that capture the essence of the Irish spirit.

From the gritty realism of urban dramas to the mystical allure of ancient folklore, each film offers a unique window into the heart of Ireland’s storytelling tradition.

These movies not only celebrate Irish identity but also address universal themes, making them beloved by audiences worldwide.

Join us as we journey through the rolling hills and bustling streets of Ireland, brought to life on the silver screen.

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Best Irish Movies of All Time

Here are the 15 best Irish Movies of all time that you can binge-watch any day!

1. The Guard (2011)

Genre: Comedy, Crime, Thriller

IMDb Ratings: 7.3/10

Where to Watch: Prime Video, Apple TV+.

An American FBI agent, played by Don Cheadle, partners with a brash Irish policeman to solve a murder and drug case in Ireland.

Their odd-couple dynamic, amid cultural clashes and humor, drives the investigation. Set in rural Ireland, the film “The Guard” combines a crime narrative with sharp wit and eccentric local characters.

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2. Calvary (2014)

Genre: Drama, Crime, Mystery

IMDb Ratings: 7.4/10

Where to Watch: Prime Video, Apple TV+, NOW TV, VUDU

In this pitch-dark comedy, an Irish priest played by Brendan Gleeson receives a death threat, and he has a week to figure out if it’s for real.

He spends the next seven days getting his affairs in order while visiting with parishioners who may be evocative of the seven deadly sins.

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3. In Bruges (2008)

Genre: Drama, Crime, Comedy

IMDb Ratings: 7.9/10

Where to Watch: Prime Video, Apple TV+, VUDU

In “In Bruges,” two Irish hitmen hide in the medieval Belgian city after a job goes wrong, grappling with guilt, existential dilemmas, and unexpected encounters in a darkly humorous and poignant tale of redemption and consequences.

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4. Intermission (2003)

Genre: Drama, Crime, Comedy

IMDb Ratings: 6.8/10

Where to Watch: Prime Video

“Intermission” is a 2003 Irish film featuring interconnected stories in Dublin, centered on a young man’s break-up that triggers a domino effect of events, involving a range of characters from a vengeful bank manager to a macho cop, blending dark humor with a gritty urban narrative.

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5. The Wind that Shakes the Barley (2006)

Genre: Drama, War

IMDb Ratings: 7.5/10

Where to Watch: Plex (Free), Prime Video, Sky Store. 

“The Wind That Shakes the Barley” portrays the Irish War of Independence and Civil War through the experiences of two brothers in the Irish Republican Army, exploring the harsh realities of war and the deep political and personal conflicts that arise during Ireland’s struggle for freedom.

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6. My Left Foot (1989)

Genre: Biography, Drama

IMDb Ratings: 7.8/10

Where to Watch: Pluto TV (Free), ITVX (Free), Apple TV+.

So let’s dig into the movie marathon, and enjoy these best Irish movies of all times on your screen.