The Best St. Patrick’s Day Movies to Watch
St. Patrick’s Day Movies To Watch!
When St. Patrick’s Day rolls around, there’s no better way to celebrate than by watching a great Irish film. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly adventures, heartfelt dramas, or thrilling action, Irish cinema has something for everyone.
From classic folklore-inspired tales to modern masterpieces, these movies capture the heart and soul of Ireland. Below, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of 15 St. Patrick’s Day movies that will transport you straight to the Emerald Isle.
Top 15 St. Patrick’s Day Movies
1. Darby O'Gill and the Little People (1959)
Director: Robert Stevenson
Starring: Albert Sharpe, Janet Munro, Sean Connery
A charming Disney classic, Darby O’Gill and the Little People follows an elderly Irishman, Darby, who stumbles upon a hidden world of leprechauns. When he captures the mischievous King Brian, he is granted three wishes—but magic always comes with a price. The film showcases stunning visual effects for its time and even features a young Sean Connery in one of his early roles. Packed with Irish folklore, humor, and adventure, this is the perfect film to start your St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
2. Finian's Rainbow (1968)
Finian's Rainbow St. Patrick’s Day Movies
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Starring: Fred Astaire, Petula Clark, Tommy Steele
This whimsical musical brings Irish magic to America as an old man, Finian, and his daughter, Sharon, arrive in the Deep South with a pot of gold stolen from a leprechaun. However, the gold’s magic starts affecting those around them in unpredictable ways. Featuring lively performances from Fred Astaire and Petula Clark, Finian’s Rainbow blends fantasy with social commentary, all set to a memorable musical score.
3. The Luck of the Irish (2001)
Director: Paul Hoen
Starring: Ryan Merriman, Alexis Lopez, Henry Gibson
A Disney Channel favorite, The Luck of the Irish follows Kyle Johnson, a teenager who seems to have it all—until he discovers that he’s actually part leprechaun. As he begins to shrink and develop pointy ears, he must reclaim his family’s lost luck from a mischievous trickster. This fun-filled adventure is perfect for families looking for a lighthearted, Irish-themed movie to enjoy on St. Patrick’s Day.
4. Leprechaun Series (1993–2018)
Director: Varies by installment
Starring: Warwick Davis, Jennifer Aniston (first film)
For those who like their St. Patrick’s Day movies with a touch of horror, the Leprechaun series delivers campy, gory fun. The franchise follows an evil leprechaun who will stop at nothing to reclaim his stolen gold, leading to a series of bizarre and over-the-top horror-comedy films. The first movie, starring Jennifer Aniston in her film debut, is a cult classic that blends Irish mythology with cheesy ’90s horror.
5. Brooklyn (2015)
Director: John Crowley
Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Domhnall Gleeson, Emory Cohen
A beautifully crafted drama, Brooklyn tells the story of Eilis Lacey, a young Irish woman who emigrates to New York in the 1950s in search of a better life. Torn between her new world and the home she left behind, she must make a heartbreaking decision about where she truly belongs. Saoirse Ronan delivers a stunning performance in this emotionally rich film that captures the immigrant experience with breathtaking visuals and deep storytelling.
Why St. Patrick’s Day Movies Are a Must-Watch Tradition
St. Patrick’s Day Movies are a fantastic way to celebrate Irish culture, folklore, and history. Whether you enjoy heartwarming dramas, animated classics, or lively comedies, these films bring the spirit of Ireland to life. Watching St. Patrick’s Day Movies with family and friends adds to the festive atmosphere, making it more than just a day of parades and green attire. From legendary tales of leprechauns to inspiring stories of resilience, these films capture the essence of Ireland’s rich storytelling tradition.
6. The Commitments (1991)
The Commitments (1991) St. Patrick’s Day Movies
Director: Alan Parker
Starring: Robert Arkins, Andrew Strong, Angeline Ball
A must-watch for music lovers, The Commitments follows a group of working-class Dubliners who form a soul band in hopes of making it big. With a mix of humor, struggle, and electrifying performances, this film captures the grit and charm of Ireland’s music scene. Featuring an incredible soundtrack and raw, naturalistic performances, The Commitments is widely considered one of the greatest Irish films of all time.
7. Michael Collins (1996)
Director: Neil Jordan
Starring: Liam Neeson, Julia Roberts, Alan Rickman
This gripping biopic tells the story of Michael Collins, the Irish revolutionary who played a key role in Ireland’s fight for independence. Liam Neeson delivers a powerful performance as Collins, a charismatic leader navigating the political turmoil of the early 20th century. With intense drama and historical depth, Michael Collins is an essential watch for those interested in Ireland’s past.
Best St. Patrick’s Day Movies to Watch This Year
8. Waking Ned Devine (1998)
Director: Kirk Jones
Starring: Ian Bannen, David Kelly, Fionnula Flanagan
A feel-good Irish comedy, Waking Ned Devine follows two elderly friends in a small Irish village who discover that their late neighbor has won the lottery. Instead of letting the winnings go unclaimed, they concoct an elaborate scheme to fool the authorities. Packed with humor, charm, and a heartwarming sense of community, this film is perfect for a lighthearted St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
9. Angela’s Ashes (1999)
Director: Alan Parker
Starring: Emily Watson, Robert Carlyle, Joe Breen
Based on Frank McCourt’s Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir, Angela’s Ashes depicts the struggles of a poor Irish family in 1930s Limerick. With stunning cinematography and emotional depth, the film offers a poignant look at resilience and survival in the face of hardship. Though heavy in tone, it’s a powerful and unforgettable story.
10. The Secret of Kells (2009)
Director: Tomm Moore, Nora Twomey
Starring: Evan McGuire, Brendan Gleeson, Mick Lally
This visually stunning animated film brings Irish mythology to life. The Secret of Kells follows a young boy named Brendan who embarks on a mystical journey to complete a legendary book. The film’s unique hand-drawn animation, inspired by Celtic art, makes it a visual masterpiece. Perfect for family viewing, it’s an enchanting tale rooted in Irish history and folklore.
Best St. Patrick’s Day Movies to Watch This Year
11. Song of the Sea (2014)
Director: Tomm Moore
Starring: David Rawle, Brendan Gleeson, Lisa Hannigan
Another beautifully animated Irish film, Song of the Sea tells the story of Ben and his younger sister, Saoirse, who is a selkie—a mythical creature that can transform between human and seal. As they embark on an adventure filled with Irish folklore, they must uncover their family’s magical past. With breathtaking animation and a touching story, this film is a perfect watch for both kids and adults.
12. Once (2007)
Director: John Carney
Starring: Glen Hansard, Markéta Irglová
A modern Irish musical, Once follows a struggling Dublin street musician and a Czech immigrant who bond over their love of music. As they collaborate on songs, their connection grows deeper, leading to an unforgettable romance. The film’s heartfelt performances and Academy Award-winning song Falling Slowly make it a standout in contemporary Irish cinema.
13. Far and Away (1992)
Far and Away St. Patrick’s Day Movies
Director: Ron Howard
Starring: Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Thomas Gibson
An epic adventure, Far and Away follows two Irish immigrants, Joseph and Shannon, who journey to America in search of a better life. As they struggle through hardships and fight for land in the Oklahoma Land Rush, their relationship is tested. With grand cinematography and sweeping romance, this film is a captivating blend of Irish and American history.
14. The Snapper (1993)
Director: Stephen Frears
Starring: Colm Meaney, Tina Kellegher, Ruth McCabe
A hilarious yet heartfelt Irish comedy, The Snapper follows a young woman named Sharon who becomes pregnant and refuses to reveal the father’s identity. As her working-class Irish family navigates the situation, Colm Meaney shines as her well-meaning but flustered father. This film, based on Roddy Doyle’s novel, is a brilliant snapshot of Irish family life filled with sharp wit and warmth.
15. In the Name of the Father (1993)
Director: Jim Sheridan
Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Pete Postlethwaite, Emma Thompson
This powerful drama is based on the true story of the Guildford Four, a group of Irish men wrongfully convicted of bombing a British pub in the 1970s. Daniel Day-Lewis delivers a riveting performance as Gerry Conlon, a man fighting to clear his name. With its gripping storytelling and emotional depth, In the Name of the Father is a must-watch for fans of historical dramas.
Final Thoughts About St. Patrick’s Day movies
Whether you’re in the mood for a heartwarming comedy, a historical epic, or a magical animated film, these 15 St. Patrick’s Day movies offer something for everyone. From classic tales of Irish folklore to contemporary masterpieces, these films bring the spirit of Ireland to the screen.
So, grab some popcorn, pour yourself a pint of Guinness, and enjoy an St. Patrick’s Day movies marathon!
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Extra Reading
Saint Patrick's Day - Wikipedia
ML Lamp is the owner of Kilroy Was Here. After his 20 years of working in Las Vegas in the entertainment promotions field, Mr. Lamp retired in 2002 from his job to pursue his passion for collectibles. Now as a guest speaker and author he’s living the dream, and sharing his warmth with You.