The Outrun (2024)

This sensitive addiction-recovery drama, directed by Nora Fingscheidt and set in the Orkneys, was appreciated by our discussion group. It is adapted from Amy Liptrop’s memoirs, a popular book club choice. We were pleased to have a member who knew the islands well.  Saoirse Ronan impressed us with her earnest and focused portrayal of a recovering alcoholic.

The soundscape, with crashing waves combined with Rona’s techno music on her headphones, was a highlight for us.  We enjoyed the brief animation of the selkie Norse legend, which took the film into a different unexpected place.  Rona’s recovery and her ability to fight her inner demons is supported by the remote, harsh and wild Orkney environment.

We had a range of responses to Rona’s cold water bathing scenes and whether her healing from depression is too hurried and “cringey.” For some of us, the scene was a significant step on the journey to recovery, when she begins to find joy.  It was noted that her hair is wet and slicked back, like the seal she encountered. The final powerful scenes, as she conducts the waves, show her back in control of her life.

The cinematography clearly contrasted her hedonistic, out of control life in London with the healing power of the Orkneys. Stifling close-ups were used for the London party scenes – it was hard to know exactly what was happening at times, just that it was ominous. This was very different from the vastness and freedom of Orkney and the sense of its restorative power. There was a distinctive colour palette for both settings, with the Papay (Papa Westray) scenes flooding your eyes with green and blue.

Rona’s complex relationship with her parents, particularly her father who has a bipolar condition, was a highlight. Her addiction journey is rooted in past damage.  The scenes of the breaking waves conveyed how the past can surge up to be with you. It’s significant that her father’s tools are used by her to create a better life.

We noted that people were very kind to Rona on her path to recovery and wondered if a small insular community would always be so supportive. We hoped so.

Although I am not sure I would see this intense film again, I would certainly read the book. I now know what a corncrake is, although we’re unlikely to see one in Rusthall. Our evening was enhanced by a special message from West Side cinema in the Orkneys.

Anne