Neil Jordan’s Ondine (2009): Irishness between Myth And Brand

Abstract

Ondine (written and directed by Neil Jordan) is a modern fairy tale set and shot in Ireland on a low budget. Although the film is set in the present and makes reference to current issues, it is strongly influenced by cliched and revivalist discourses, such as were nurtured by Irish romantic and cultural nationalism. Consequently, the film frequently lapses into stereotypically romanticised representations of Irishness and obsolete gender constructs, reminiscent of those popularised by Irish-American film productions of the first half of the twentieth century. These filmic versions of Ireland are part of an ongoing and global process, the commodification of all things Irish. From this vantage point, Ondine can be seen as one more label in the branding of an always already marketed Irish identity and culture.