The best stories aren’t always about neat resolutions. Sometimes, the real thrill lies in the messy, unpredictable streets and back alleys of life. Lisa McGee, the Northern Irish screenwriter behind the acclaimed series Derry Girls, seems to understand this implicitly. Her latest offering, How to Get to Heaven from Belfast, now streaming on Netflix, isn’t a conventional whodunit; it’s a wildly entertaining, tonally adventurous crime comedy that throws viewers headfirst into a darkly humorous world.
The series centers on three lifelong friends in their late 30s – Saoirse (Roísín Gallagher), a television writer; Robyn (Sinéad Keenan), a pragmatic mother of three; and Dara (Caoilfhionn Dunne), a quietly observant woman caring for her mother. When they learn of the death of a former classmate, Greta, they’re drawn back together and into a mystery that threatens to unravel long-held secrets. The journey, as it turns out, is less about solving a crime and more about the complicated, enduring bonds of female friendship.
How to Get to Heaven from Belfast distinguishes itself with its chaotic energy and willingness to embrace tonal shifts. As the women investigate Greta’s death in scenic County Donegal, they stumble into a series of increasingly bizarre situations – from encounters with enigmatic outlaws to run-ins with the Irish Garda (police). The display doesn’t shy away from the absurd, incorporating elements of ghost sightings, car crashes, and even a St. Patrick’s Day parade brimming with chaotic energy.
The cast delivers standout performances. Roísín Gallagher embodies Saoirse’s restless imagination, whereas Sinéad Keenan brings a sharp wit and commanding presence to Robyn. Caoilfhionn Dunne’s portrayal of Dara is particularly noteworthy, imbuing the character with a subtle, understated humor. The dynamic between the three actresses is the heart of the series, showcasing a friendship built on years of shared history, playful antagonism, and unwavering loyalty.
A Unique Blend of Genres
McGee masterfully blends elements of crime drama, dark comedy, and even surrealism, creating a viewing experience that is both unpredictable, and captivating. The show’s willingness to veer off the beaten path, embracing the unexpected, sets it apart from more formulaic mysteries. Critics have noted the show’s ability to evoke the spirit of David Lynch, blending teenage darkness with a comedic style reminiscent of the Marx Brothers, as reported by NPR.
Exploring the Weight of the Past
Beneath the surface of the mystery lies a deeper exploration of the past and its enduring influence on the present. Flashbacks reveal the formative experiences that shaped the characters’ relationships and the secrets they’ve carried for decades. The show suggests that we are all, to some extent, haunted by our pasts, and that confronting those ghosts is essential to moving forward. The series, comprised of eight episodes, delves into the complexities of long-term friendship and the ways in which shared experiences can bind people together, even in the face of adversity.
While the initial episodes are characterized by their freewheeling energy, the series does settle into more conventional crime show tropes as it progresses. However, even in these moments, How to Get to Heaven from Belfast remains a compelling and entertaining watch, thanks to its sharp writing, strong performances, and unique Irish sensibility. The show’s creator, Lisa McGee, previously brought audiences the critically acclaimed Derry Girls, and this new series demonstrates her continued ability to create engaging and thought-provoking television.
How to Get to Heaven from Belfast is a refreshing take on the murder mystery genre, offering a darkly comedic and emotionally resonant exploration of friendship, secrets, and the enduring power of the past. The series, starring Roísín Gallagher, Sinéad Keenan, and Caoilfhionn Dunne, is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
As the mystery unfolds, audiences can expect further revelations about the characters’ shared history and the circumstances surrounding Greta’s death. The series promises to continue its exploration of the complexities of female friendship and the enduring impact of the past, offering a compelling and darkly humorous ride for viewers.
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