Inside I'm Dancing (2004)

This is a little-known 2004 film which, for some reason, was retitled for American release as "Rory O'Shea Was Here". It is an unusual work in that both the leading characters have severe disabilities: Rory (James McAvoy) has muscular dystrophy and Michael (Steven Robertson) has cerebral palsy which means that both are wheel-chair users and initially in a residential care home. They are befriended by an attractive young woman called Siobhan (Romola Garai) who agrees to be their carer in their attempt at independent living. Although the originator of the story (Christian O'Reilly), director (Damien O'Donnell), all the locations (Dublin) and much of the funding (Irish Film Board) are Irish, strangely the two lead actors are Scottish and the lead actress is English, but they acquit themselves well in a worthy work which, while having humour, is ultimately very moving.

Maybe a little late in the day, but I have just watched 'Inside I am Dancing' it was on ITV 3 and I recorded it for when there was nothing else to watch. I have to say Excellent,So So Excellent! the tears are steaming down my face and I can not stop thinking about it.This is what a good film is! Not predictable like bloody aliens and horrors, same old same old! This was sad, real, funny, emotional, true to life, there was such an excellent sense of humour between Rory and Michael. All so cleverly done and well researched, by the end of the film you could almost understand Michael so very well portrayed. It was so refreshing to see such a true to life film so well made and well acted. I would say it is suited more for the girls than the guys, only because most guys do not show their emotions! I loved it even more as I was brought up in Ireland and so loved the accents and sense of humour also spotted a few places in Dublin I knew. Where can I see more films like this. Pure pure brilliance.

Best comedy I have ever watched. Its very funny and not degrading to people with special needs. Its made on a low budget which doesn't take from it. It is very Irish which adds to its charm. Although funny it has some sad scenes. Its something men and women will both enjoy. Makes you more aware of the problems special needs people have. The main male actors are very good. I would like to see a sequel. Its a great idea that could have a follow up.If i was to try and pick faults for me i would say the love story part could have been more convincing or passionate and the sad part drags out a bit to much for a comedy. Other wise it is great a laugh a minute. Funny but simple and normal laughs. Brilliant.

James McAvoy and Steven Robertson are incredible as the leads, Rory and Michael, who form an unlikely friendship in the home to which they are assigned. Rory can understand Michael's speaking when no one else can.These are severely handicapped men, confined to wheelchairs and limited mobility.The story of their leaving the home and establishing an assisted independent living environment for themselves is the plot of the movie.Many, many subtle comedic bits, such as a road race with children. Many emotional moments - one of them falls in love and is spurned, gently but firmly. One heartbreaking scene of a father repelled by his own son and rejecting him.The role of the home's manager, Eileen, played by Brenda Fricker is too one-dimensional to give the character any depth. I hate these one-note bad guys so beloved of Hollow-wood.But hats off to all concerned for making a movie about a very difficult subject matter and enlightening so many along the way as to the real challenges of the severely disabled.8 out of 10.