'Down' more than expected

Previews indicated that "I Went Down" would be an Irish Trainspotting, complete with thick accents and dodgy underworld characters.

While these factors are present , "I Went Down" successfully travels beyond the boundaries of its apparent genre.

The characters may include gangsters and the scenery may have the grit of Ireland, but at the heart of this film is a genuine and funny buddy movie.

Git Haynes (newcomer Peter MacDonald) has just been released from jail for a crime he didn't commit, when he lands himself in trouble with the local crime boss, Tom French (Tony Doyle).

REVIEW
	I Went Down 3 1/2 stars At State

In order to make amends with the boss and bail his gambling best friend out of debt, Git must find and bring back the boss' old partner, who has disappeared with something the boss is desperate to retrieve.

Git's companion on this journey is Bunny (Brendan Glesson), a stubborn, unwilling henchman to the boss. From the moment the two set out on the road, it's plain that Bunny is a bit mad, a bit lonely and a bomb waiting to explode.

The frustration and friendship that ensues between these two is what breathes life and charm into the film.

Git is immediately likeable. The unfortunate ex-con is shy, loyal and has a conscience made of steel.

Bunny, on the other hand, is crude and pig-headed. His antics continuously put Git in the most horrible situations. But through the progression of their friendship, Bunny is revealed as a sweet, vulnerable and surprisingly loyal lug.

What makes the movie truly great is the careful character development of script writer Conor McPherson. He creates a crime story background for two characters very unlike the macho gangsters who command them. The contrast between the henchmen and the upper mobsters is effective in exposing the personalities behind Git and Bunny.

"I Went Down" uses crooks, witty language and an Irish backdrop to create the rough feel of a gangster film. But don't go expecting a Tarentino movie; you'll be disappointed. This movie may have guns and small time criminals, but, unlike many films of this genre, it also has a heart of gold.

07-06-98