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Film / 1991
The Grass Arena
Directed by
Gillies MacKinnon
The Grass Arena is based on the autobiography of John Healy. Raised in an strongly religious family, with an abusive father, John soon learns that he has to defend himself. Growing into adulthood he takes up boxing, but soon falls victim to alcoholism. His boxing career over, John takes to the Grass Arena (the park) where he lives with other alcoholics. Prison time introduces him to a new and unexpected path.
The story
The Grass Arena is based on the autobiography of John Healy. Raised in an strongly religious family, with an abusive father, John soon learns that he has to defend himself. Growing into adulthood he takes up boxing, but soon falls victim to alcoholism. His boxing career over, John takes to the Grass Arena (the park) where he lives with other alcoholics. Prison time introduces him to a new and unexpected path.
Cast
Mark RylanceJohn Healy
Pete PostlethwaiteThe Dipper
Lynsey BaxterMadalena
Marian McLoughlinMrs. Healy
Billy BoyleMr. Healy
Ronan VibertCharles Fieldhouse
Clive RussellMac
Julian FirthBates
Paddy JoyceKelly
Gerard HoranThe Sham
Bunny MayFox
Brian HallGeorge
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Nicholas PalliserChess Opponent
Noreen KershawWoman in Cafe
Harry LandisKaufman
Andrew DicksYoung John Healy
Nick DawneyYoung Terry Healy
Louis MellisJock
Anna KeaveneyLiverpool Lil
John O'TooleWilliams
Lyndam GregoryFowler
Rosalind BennettKate
Amanda MealingTeresa
Natalie SlaterMiss Golon
Tam Dean BurnAndy
David FoxxePete
Roger FrostKen
Dee OrrMargaret
Steven HammettRon
Philip FoxRadiographer
Stephan HartfordPriest
Mark Anthony NewmanBoswell
Vincent KeaneBoxing Opponent
Tom LucySparring Partner
Tim BarlowOld Man
Ultan Ely-O'CarrollDublin Tommy
Betty RomaineNun
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