It's easy to expect inspiration with Rory O'Shea Was Here. The film tells of Rory O 'Shea (James McAvoy), a rebellious teen with muscular dystrophy, and his friendship with Michael Connelly (Steven Robertson), a shy boy whose cerebral palsy gives him difficulty speaking. The two become close friends at a home for the disabled where Michael uses Rory as an interpreter. Rory gives Michael more than a voice; he gives him a drive for independence.
Unfortunately, inspiration is difficult to come by when the characters are not likable. Though driven, Rory is caustic. "If I've done anything to offend you," he says, "then good." Although Rory's brazen insistence upon equal treatment may be understandable, his rudeness and irresponsibility are not. The worst part is that Rory's character is static throughout the film. It seems as if the filmmaker wishes us to absolve Rory of his flaws purely because he is wheelchair-bound.
The film unjustifiably ridicules homosexuals and devout Christians by using them as comic relief in a scene where the duo hires an assistant. In addition, the film abruptly and unexpectedly ends, making it complete in its absurdity. Though there is some good dialogue and acting, Rory O'Shea remains wholly unlikable.
