By Jack Shanley

A raw terrifying film, said to be the scariest film ever made, but does it live up to those 50 years on from its original release? The answer well for me at least is yes. It is such a well-directed film…so patient in its pacing flawlessly acted, with brilliant editing and cinematography that really add to the eerie atmosphere of the film. Every shot, every cut is deliberate. The composition of each shot is perfect. Every element of each scene is utilized to its full capacity in each shot, and nothing in a shot lingers for too long, or too short of a time. It gives you just enough to make you feel uneasy.

The Exorcist isn’t just a typical ‘girl is possessed’ film. It is much more involved and deeper than that. For much of this film you question if Regan is just crazy or if she is actually possessed. Even during the exorcism scene, the priests are fully convinced she is even possessed. Which gets to the heart and core of the film: it is a film about faith. Despite the religious nature of the film, there is quite a bit of science and psychology involved to make even the most religious people question how realistic their beliefs really are. And despite all this doubt and questioning of faith during the film, the exorcist puts all their conceived notions, beliefs, and logic aside, taking a leap of faith to try to save Regan in one of the greatest climaxes in all of cinema. It didn’t feel like an exorcism just for the sake of an exorcism, it felt earned. With a new Exorcist film on the horizon ‘The Exorcist: Believer’ and the sad recent passing Exorcist director and cinema great William Friedkin, now is a great time if any to watch the horror masterpiece. The Exorcist is being screened for its 50th Anniversary in the Light House Cinema in late September into early October. In all truth I’d recommend checking out The Exorcist and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of five stars. Director: William Friedkin – Rating: 18 – Genre: Horror/Thriller – Run Time: 2h 12m – Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

By Dave Kavanagh

When it comes to the important task of making sure that you have the most appropriate life and serious illness cover in place, many people often keep putting off making time to arrange it, (it’s not the most fun exercise!) despite the fact it can give them peace of mind, knowing that in the event of a fatality or a serious illness, their family do not suffer substantial financial loss. But what are they really saying? “I’ll have a look at that after Christmas”. Often replaced with “after Easter”, “after the holidays”, “after the kids go back to school” and a few others. What is actually being said is “I’ll name sometime in the future so that I don’t have to deal with it now” (a bit like “I’ll start the diet on Monday/in January”). Let’s face it, you can easily find 30-60 minutes once a year to deal with something this important. You’ll be glad you took the time. “We have cover in place already”. Great. That is if it’s been reviewed in the last few months, but on closer examination, it often hasn’t been looked at in years and circumstances have changed, it may no longer be suitable. It’s important to keep things relevant to your current personal circumstances. “Our bank sorted everything for us”. Your bank may have sorted a few things, but in most cases, banks are tied to one life company, so a fair comparison cannot be made, meaning you could be paying way over the odds for whatever the bank has put in place for you. Dealing with an advisor who is not tied to one company and can compare other options is the only way to make sure you get the best value. “I’m busy at present, I’ll give you a shout in a few months”. But the fact remains, if there is an activity that you like you will make time for it. Burying your head in the sand is rarely a successful solution to most problems. Someone once told me that they had no time and in the same conversation told me they had queued for over an hour in a drive-through for doughnuts. (They were also up to date on all the soap storylines!) If it’s important, make the time.

Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can be contacted by emailing Dave at info@financialcompanion.ie or use the contact form on financialcompanion.ie or @Davekav_advice on Twitter and Instagram. Combined with his previous role of gym/nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial well being, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM , LMFM and TV3.

There have been TV and radio programmes recently featuring the late Dr. Noel Browne. As Minister for Health, Browne is credited with waging a successful total war on Tuberculosis. However, his attempt to implement the Mother and Child Scheme in effect brought down the First Inter-Party Government of Taoiseach John A. Costello in 1951 and remains one of the greatest political controversies in modern Irish political history. One radio programme included Liveline on RTE Radio 1, Wednesday August 2nd., featuring artist Robert Ballagh, whose portrait painting of Noel Browne is hidden away in storage. Among other details mentioned in that broadcast was that Dr. Noel Browne lived in Malahide for 6 months each year! Does anyone know or have any more details/information on where in Malahide he lived or any details of his life here? If you have you can contact Malahide Historical Society on their email at: malahidehistoricalsociety2@gmail.com (courtesy of Malahide Historical Society)

By Jack Shanley

‘Oppenheimer’ is a breathtaking masterpiece and perhaps one of the finest biopics ever made. Christopher Nolan manages to yet again skilfully combine the elements of action, audio, acting, direction, and scene design into an unforgettable cinematic experience, proving once again why he is one of the greatest directors of our time. Christopher Nolan’s visionary film making is mesmerising, with the movie taking audiences on an electrifying journey weaving together heart- pounding action sequences, exceptional performances, stunning visuals, and the very meticulous direction. Incredible performances from all including quite extraordinary performances from both Robert Downey Jr. and Emily Blunt. It’s one of our own in Cillian Murphy who truly steals the show with a mesmerising performance that is Oscar worthy. It is those big blue eyes, the stern look, you can really feel the stress that J. Robert Oppenheimer was put under. What makes the film so captivating is this story of a man with weight of the world on his shoulders and the idea that you either view J. Robert Oppenheimer as a hero or villain, it’s just fascinating. From the very very beginning, the film grips you with its captivating storytelling and seamless blend of the historical accuracy and cinematic artistry. The narrative unfolds chronologically, taking the audience on an enthralling journey through Oppenheimer’s early life, his academic pursuits, and eventually, his pivotal role in the development of the atomic bomb during World War II. The experience I had in the cinema was riveting, pure cinematic magic as It’s a film you must see in IMAX. I felt locked into the movie as if I was taken back in time to the 1940’s. The film score complements the truly emotional depth of the story, heightening every scene’s impact and leaving a lasting impression on the viewers minds. With ‘Oppenheimer’ being quite dense. I’d suggest perhaps maybe you watching a documentary before going to see it. Lastly, I’ll finish by saying ‘Oppenheimer’ isn’t merely a biopic about a renowned physicist; it transcends into a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. In all truth I’d recommend checking out Oppenheimer and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of five stars. Director: Christopher Nolan – Rating: R – Genre: Drama/Thriller-Run Time: 3h – Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

by Síobhán O’Neill White

It’s September and we’ve got some tips to make the back to school transition smooth.

One of the most important things to do is LABEL EVERYTHING!! Uniforms, bags, coats, shoes – we label with iron and stick on personalised labels from MyNametags.ie Pick the colour and style your child likes and add your contact number. Then, if an item gets lost, you’re more likely to get it back! For young children, Smiggle is fun for back to school essentials, as well as colouring goodies and games. We love the vibrant colours, ideal for all kinds of little personalities. Their Ilac SC store is fab for kids to explore. My children love the scented markers, crafty packs, fun pencil cases and quirky water bottles. For school tech, ipad and phone covers are very important to keep devices intact! HOCO have a wide range of styles in store at Ilac and online at hoco.ie reasonably priced and the staff are super helpful too. Headphones and earbuds are great for teens and tweens on grumpy mornings when they don’t want to chat in the car or bus on way to school! Gadget Geek has a colourful, well priced range. Regatta wind and rainproof coats have reflectors for additional safety on dark wintery mornings and evenings to make sure kids are always visible. We love the Dare2B collabs with Laura Whitmore, Fleur East and Jermaine Jenas. I especially love their warm fleeces to throw on for chilly school morning runs. And check out the Peppa Pig clothing for little ones, very cute.

If you’re thinking ahead to a mini break during the October mid-term? Pillo Hotel Ashbourne has a
pool, spa and offer excellent family packages, with trips to Emerald Park, Dublin Zoo and more. See pillohotelashbourne.com Ashbourne is such a quaint village, with cute shops and cafes. We especially love Chez Emily for hot chocolates and their delicious handmade chocolates are really irresistible! For couples’ romantic breaks, Bellinter House, nestled in the truly gorgeous Meath countryside is ideal for some child free time! My husband and I had a lovely time there with spa treatments, delicious dinner and a comfy stay in their converted stables. Romantic and Cosy!As we get into Autumn, we’ll have lots going on at mams.ie - logon for competitions, chat and more! It’s a fantastic support network for parents in Ireland, is free and full of great product reviews, blogs, offers and giveaways.

Shortlisted for Golden Spider Award & Infant & Maternity Award
As seen on RTE and Virgin Media Ireland & Weekend AM and as heard on Today FM’s Ian Dempsey & Dermot & Dave; RTE’s Ray D’Arcy Show, 98FM, LMFM Late Lunch, WLRFM & Shannonside FM

By Dave Kavanagh

There are many situations where homeowners have limited or no savings but may have requirements that need funding, even though their income does not permit them to commit to unaffordable, regular repayments. Imagine you’ve worked diligently to pay off a substantial portion or all of your mortgage, and you find yourself in need of additional funds due to unforeseen circumstances. A lifetime mortgage allows you to tap into this equity without selling your home. The borrowed amount, along with accrued interest, is typically repaid when the property is sold or when the last borrower passes away or moves into long-term care, so there are no regular repayments to make. There are, of course, reasons why they may not be appropriate for everyone’s circumstances. Some of the benefits include access to funds, whether it is to cover medical expenses, modifications to your home, to assist children in purchasing their own home, or any other urgent needs, no monthly repayments and ownership of your property is retained. Some of the factors to consider, include interest accrual, as interest is added to the borrowed amount over time, this may reduce the equity remaining in your property. It can reduce the value of your estate, potentially affecting any inheritance you leave behind. Financial implications: it’s crucial to understand the impact of a lifetime mortgage on your overall financial situation, including potential entitlements to state benefits. The amount that can be advanced will depend on the ages of the homeowners and the value of the property (minimum age is 60). Choosing a lifetime mortgage is a decision that should be made carefully, taking into account your unique circumstances, goals, and needs, including situations where there may be still some of your children living at home and you may have planned to leave them the home to live in after your passing. For further information on lifetime mortgages, you can email info@financialcompanion.ie and put “lifetime mortgages” in the subject line.

By Malahide Historical Society

A recent rescue of swimmers in the deep narrows channel in Malahide had a happier outcome than this sad event which was reported in the press 101 years ago.

Titled “MALAHIDE DISASTER”
“Three Dublin men, who were fishing from a boat in Malahide Creek, lost their lives on Sunday through the upturning of the boat, in an attempt to float through one of the arches of the railway bridge. Their names are Thomas, Ryan, 47 York St. , John Somerville, Manor Place and Richard Tisdall, 143 Gt. Brunswick St.With them in the boat was Robert Wilson of Robert St. The four were members of a fishing party organised by the Knights of the Silver Hook Sea Anglers. Several boats, in each of which there were four competitors, set out and took up their separate positions.

The men set their baits and, after some time, that occupied by Ryan, Somerville and their companions drifted towards the railway bridge, known as the “Eleven Arches.”’ With the falling tide a strong current flows there and, carried away by a strong wind, the small boat capsized at a point which may be described as a waterfall. The occupants of the boat were thrown out, and quickly carried away into deep water. Wilson succeeded in clinging on to the boat and was rescued by other fishermen. The occurrence was witnessed by a lady looking from a window in the vicinity. She raised the alarm, but owing to the distance from the village, before help could reach the bridge the three men were carried away to death by the flowing waters. When Mr. Wilson was brought ashore he was in a state of exhaustion.The body of Ryan was recovered and taken charge of by members of the I.R.A but the other bodies have not yet been recovered. Mr. Ryan was an employee of Messrs. West and Son, goldsmiths and jewellers, Grafton St., Dublin. Mr. Wilson is Hon. Secretary of the Knights of the Silver Hook Sea Anglers’ Club”.Source: Southern Star newspaper 1 July 1922

by Jack Shanley

Daunting disturbing and chilling Vertigo remains a masterpiece. 55 years after its original release and with it being shown later this month in the lighthouse Cinema Alfred Hitchcock’s mesmerising fascinating masterpiece still moves audiences today. Arguably Hitchcock’s best film it’s still fascinates me every time I see it. It’s the study of obsession that keeps the material so fresh and new. Its Johns (James Stewart) obsession that drives the story on and keeps us hooked from the second we see the dizzying spirals of the opening credits sequence. Although story was arguably the most important part of a Hitchcock film, with Vertigo its quite different. It’s the emotions, characters, themes that pull a story together. I’ve seen this work with many films and find it quite interesting, as a film it could have a basic story but it lives off its character development etc. This is the film that introduced the World to the famous sequence known as the Vertigo Effect which has gone on to be used in various other films. It;s basically a forward zoom with a reverse dolly meant to achieve a disorienting effect of shifting perspectives. Vertigo also happens to be Hitchcock’s most personal picture, burrowing deep into the directors own darkest wormholes: obsessions with women, the desire to control them, and to mould them into a personal ideal. The psychologically complex material is played off incredibly well by James Stewart who we sympathize with and a chilling Kim Novak performance. With the colours dazzling, and Bernard Herrmann’s extraordinary score as crisp and haunting as ever, its surely a must watch. In all truth I’d recommend checking out Vertigo as its screens in the Lighthouse Cinema on August 20th and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of five stars. Director: Alfred Hitchcock– Rating: PG – Genre: Mystery/Thriller – Run Time: 2h 8m – Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

by Siobhán O’Neill White

Need inspiration for ideas to keep the kids busy this summer? Go to www.mams.ie, follow our socials FB @mams.ireland, Instagram @mams.ie and Twitter, @mams_ie for ideas, discounts and competitions galore.Emerald Park is open for visitors! Whether you’re brave enough to face Cu Chúllain or more comfortable visiting the zoo, it’s a fab day out. We’ve tickets to give away here: instagram.com/mams.ie/ Eddie Rockets want to help parents this summer, so every Tuesday, kids eat free! For every adult meal purchased for €12 or more, get one free child meal. To enter our Eddie’s voucher giveaway, go here: mams.ie/2023/05/16/kids-eat-free-at-eddie-rockets-on-tuesday-all-summer-long/ Need staycation inspiration? Farnham Estate is wonderful for family breaks. Nestled in the lush Cavan’s countryside, it’s a haven. We love to walk the grounds and visit the stunning indoor/outdoor pool! My sister got married here and it remains a firm favourite for our family. We heard such rave reviews about Carlingford Adventure Camp from parents last year that we’ve booked our 11yr old in with her best friend for their 3 day/2 night camp. Jam packed with activities and set in beautiful Carlingford, the camps are very well priced and have residential and non- residential options available, see https://carlingfordadventure.com/
For days you want to chill out, ArcCinema.ie kids’ clubs are great value. We also love their family deal which includes cinema passes, popcorn and drinks for a family of 4 (2 adults and 2 kids or 1 adult and 3 kids) for only €39.95. With so many wonderful movies out this summer, there’s plenty to choose from! We recommend investing in some garden toys for the many summer days the kids will be playing at home or have friends over. Irish company JKC Toymaster are experts in outdoor toys. Our daughters have been on our Berg trampoline non-stop since we got it. See their fab range here: jkctoymaster.ie/. If you fancy a different kind of holiday - how about Glamping?! We’re heading to Ardmore Glamping Pods in beautiful Waterford. We’ve booked a large pod, which fits 7 people. Right next to the beach and Ardmore Open Farm, it’s a fabulous location. They even rent BBQ’s out so you can cook up a storm while enjoying the beautiful beach views! Inquire at ardmoreglampingpods.ie/. Please make sure to be sun safe this summer. We recommend Irish brand Elave SPF50 suncream. Its brilliant for all ages. Watch our socials for giveaways on this.

By Dave Kavanagh

One of the issues with planning ahead to protect you and your family’s financial future, is the fact that we don’t know exactly what the future holds. Will jobs and income change? How long will I maintain good health? Will I win the lottery jackpot in the next 3 years? The uncertainty of the future means that we often plan for a variety of occurrences. One important aspect of this planning is deciding on a term for things like Life Cover. A life cover plan can either be done for a specific term or it can be done as a “whole of life” plan. One of the problems with the old way of doing these was that the premiums were reviewed after a few years and could result in constant, substantial increases, often forcing people to either cancel them or accept a much lower level of cover. With “guaranteed whole of life” plans, you at least know exactly what the premium will always be and the level of cover but planning that far ahead can be costly. A relatively new method of dealing with this issue was introduced from one of the life companies, and it is an addition called “Life Changes Option”. This option gives the policy owners a number of choices once they have paid premiums for at least 15 years. They can then choose to either; a) Stop paying premiums and reduce the level of cover which stays in place until the cover is paid out, or b) Cancel the cover (if it is no longer required) and take a refund of up to 70% of all premiums previously paid, or c) Continue the plan as it is with the same level of cover and premiums. This option has become quite popular when people are looking to future-proof cover as it offers choices that can suit people’s changing circumstances. If they have cleared loans and have sufficient savings, a reduced level of cover might be ideal. If they have strong pensions and savings, they may no longer have a need for cover and can take back a lump sum. For more information on how this type of cover may suit you, ask your advisor or contact me for a free quotation.