Alan Parker (The Wall, The Commitments) directs this screen version of Frank McCourt's memoir about a rough Irish childhood. The film opens in a thoroughly depressing fashion, but eventually shows signs of hope.

Parker has created a beautiful looking film with impressive production values and some very good acting particularly from Robert Carlyle (Trainspotting). Parker also gets some fine performances from Emily Watson (Breaking the Waves), and the young actors that play the impoverished children.

There are moments in Angela's Ashes that stagger, but for the most part, this is solid, effective movie making. If you are emotional, make sure you have plenty of tissue ready, because there are moments in this film that are hard to take.

On a final note, pay special attention to John William's score. It's one of his very best.