Edward Burns' 'Finnegan's Foursome' is a sports dramedy that feels like a time capsule from the 1990s, frozen in amber. It's a movie that feels both familiar and dated, a product of its time and place. Burns, the writer, director, and actor, has a style that is shaggy-likable and spiky-quaint, with a semi-low-budget feel. The film is about golf, family, and the complexities of relationships, but it's the personal journey of the main character, Freddy Finnegan, that truly drives the narrative.
Freddy, played by Burns himself, is a wealthy clothing entrepreneur with anger-management issues stemming from his rivalry with his father, Jack. The film opens with a sense of anticipation, as we expect a dramatic showdown between the two. However, the movie takes an unexpected turn when Jack suffers a heart attack during a golf competition, leaving the family to scatter his ashes in Ireland.
The story then becomes a road trip of sorts, as Freddy, his brother Teddy, son Frankie, and daughter Marie travel to Ireland to play in the Finnegan's Cup. The film is structured as a sports movie, with Burns and cinematographer Jeff Muhlstock capturing the geometric majesty of the golf courses. But the real drama lies in the relationships between the characters.
One of the film's strengths is its ability to balance humor and emotion. The dialogue is on-the-nose, with characters constantly making side bets and busting each other's chops. However, there are also touching moments, such as the scene where three of the characters sing 'The Parting Glass' at a pub. It's a reminder that the film is ultimately about the bonds between family members.
The film's central conflict is Freddy's resentment towards his father. Jack's crime, as far as Freddy is concerned, is being away from the golf course too much. This is a dated sin, and it's hard not to feel sympathy for Jack, who is portrayed as a warm-hearted and competitive man. The film suggests that Freddy needs to dismantle the ogre of resentment in himself, but this is not a movie that offers easy solutions. It's a reminder that personal growth is a lifelong journey.
Burns' style is now closer to television than movies, and 'Finnegan's Foursome' feels like a minor indie film that has found its rightful home on streaming platforms. It's a movie that is both familiar and refreshing, a product of its time and place. While it may not be a groundbreaking work, it is a thoughtful and engaging exploration of family dynamics and personal growth, with a touch of Irish charm.
