Andrew Strong albeit unknowingly was in-part responsible for my return to this country in the early 90's.
I remember sitting in my home in east sussex when I first came across that movie of his.
It was probably the most influencial in my final decision to return to these errant shores of ours.
It was the first of the new paddy culture movies.
Most films that were to appear later only failed in their emulation; of this benchmark film, of what it is to be down and out in modern day Ireland.
The considerable collective talent amongst cast crew writers and production staff of the commitments remains unchalleged, to this day.
The one voice that carried that movie from start to finish was the voice and soulful energy of Mr Andrew Strong.
Thank U for sharing those moments in time with all of us, Andrew.
Addendum: The vision of urban deprivation, social neglect and youthful imaginings of unrealised success in the music industry. Is as relevent today; throughout urban & rural Ireland notwithstanding the ever burgeoning modern day suburbia west of Dublin safe amongst mountain high.
As it was way back in that post show-band era of International regret. jk
Andrew Strong as 'Deco Cuffe' in The Commitments