Bog: The Beautiful Irish Animated Short That Explores Grief and Memory

Bog is an enigmatic, beautifully made animated short, written and directed by Éabha Bortolozzo and Jack Kirwan. Our young protagonist, Oisin (pronounced  uh-SHEEN and meaning Little Deer) embarks on a poignant journey through the mysterious depths of the bog.  There, he uncovers the buried memories of his beloved father. Guided by the majestic spirit of the Great Irish Elk, he confronts his father's pain and suffering, gradually coming to understand the emotions that have shaped them both. As he descends ever deeper into the earth, Oisin also discovers a greater understanding of his own feelings and learns how to express them with honesty and clarity.

Among others, Tom Vaughan-Lawlor lends his voice to the film. One of Ireland's most acclaimed actors, he is best known for playing the unforgettable Nidge in Love/Hate, while international audiences will recognise him as Ebony Maw in Marvel's Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame. His impressive screen career also includes Peaky Blinders, Dublin Murders and numerous acclaimed stage productions.

For me, the fact that the spirit animal spoke the Irish language, while Oisin spoke English (even though they understood each other fully) added an extra layer of melancholy to the story.  It may not have been deliberate, but it underlines the profound changes that Ireland has been through over the last few centuries – and represents something else that was taken away from the Irish people.  Watch Bog below.