Set in Ireland, Penitent follows Jason (Michael Linehan), who struggles with guilt after accidentally causing a child's death while behind the wheel. Released from prison after serving four years for a manslaughter charge, Jason attempts to rebuild his life, haunted by the traumatic incident and battling PTSD. Despite finding a job and reconnecting with old friends, Jason's past continues to torment him, exacerbated by encounters with drugs and unwelcome visitors.
The film uses non-linear storytelling, immersing viewers in Jason's memories of the arrest and trial, where drugs found in his car led to a harsher sentence. Determined to atone, Jason seeks redemption through legitimate work and societal contribution, despite the challenges of his corrupt surroundings. As he grapples with his past and seeks solace, he only finds more violence and apathy. Penitent explores themes of guilt, forgiveness, and the complexities of redemption in the face of adversity.
The film’s listless style will leave some dissatisfied, but viewers who enjoy tragedy and experimental motifs will quickly realize that this style mimics the feeling of being just out of prison. The situation for most folks coming out of jail is one of anxiety and insecurity, both emotional and financial. Serving a prison sentence makes it harder to find a job and interact with your community as biases and hatred rise to the surface. Penitent does an excellent job of showing this, but it might be a little too experimental in its slice-of-life styling for some drama fans.
Those looking for a tragic story will be thrilled to watch this film. Michael Linehan delivers yet another stunning performance as Jason, driving the plot with his acting skills. Typical of Brian Stynes’ other films, there is a vagueness about the plot and dialogue which adds a realistic quality. The trade-off for such experimentation is that some viewers will find themselves lost. Those drawn to art films and slice-of-life titles will find the most enjoyment in Penitent. Highly Recommended.
Where does this title belong on public library shelves?
Penitent would fit right into any collection of tragic dramas.
What type of film series could use this title?
Any film series about Irish films, prison, PTSD, or tragedy could use Penitent.