Is The Brylcreem Boys Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Brylcreem Boys is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 106 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Brylcreem Boys Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1996, The Brylcreem Boys enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on In 1941, as part of an effort to remain strictly neutral, the Dublin government made a deal with both Berlin and London whereby any soldier, sailor or pilot captured on Irish soil, whether of German or Allied forces, would be interned for the duration of the war. Under the direction of Terence Ryan, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Angus Macfadyen, Billy Campbell, John Gordon Sinclair. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Brylcreem Boys offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, The Brylcreem Boys resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, The Brylcreem Boys is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of The Brylcreem Boys centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. In 1941, as part of an effort to remain strictly neutral, the Dublin government made a deal with both Berlin and London whereby any soldier, sailor or pilot captured on Irish soil, whether of German or Allied forces, would be interned for the duration of the war. What the Irish failed to tell was that they would intern everybody in the same camp. It is here that Canadian pilot Miles Keogh and German pilot Rudolph Von Stegenbeck meet after a fight in which both their planes were downed. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1996 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Brylcreem Boys has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a The Brylcreem Boys sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Brylcreem Boys (1996): with an audience rating of 4/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Drama, Romance, War cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Brylcreem Boys has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Drama, Romance, War), viewers should expect violence, action sequences, romantic content.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4/10, and global collection metrics, The Brylcreem Boys stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1996 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Brylcreem Boys movie hit or flop?
The Brylcreem Boys is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4/10 and lower collections.
Is The Brylcreem Boys worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4/10, The Brylcreem Boys may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is The Brylcreem Boys?
The Brylcreem Boys is a Drama, Romance, War movie that In 1941, as part of an effort to remain strictly neutral, the Dublin government made a deal with both Berlin and London whereby any soldier, sailor or...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Brylcreem Boys movie hit or flop?
The Brylcreem Boys is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4/10 and lower collections.
Is The Brylcreem Boys worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4/10, The Brylcreem Boys may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is The Brylcreem Boys?
The Brylcreem Boys is a Drama, Romance, War movie that In 1941, as part of an effort to remain strictly neutral, the Dublin government made a deal with both Berlin and London whereby any soldier, sailor or...
Is The Brylcreem Boys family friendly?
The Brylcreem Boys is a Drama, Romance, War movie. Please check the content rating before watching with family.
Where can I watch The Brylcreem Boys?
You can find streaming options and availability for The Brylcreem Boys on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of The Brylcreem Boys?
The Brylcreem Boys features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
How long is the movie The Brylcreem Boys?
The runtime and duration of The Brylcreem Boys are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
No, "The Brylcreem Boys" is not a documentary about men's hair dressing in the 1940's, nor does it feature actual boys as main characters. It is a poorly done slap in the face of those involved in World War II Europe. Canadian R.A.F. pilot Myles Keogh (Bill Campbell) and his crew are shot down over what they think is France. They are arrested and transported to the local Irish prisoner of war camp. It seems Ireland is neutral in the war, holding captured British soldiers on one side of the camp, and captured Nazi soldiers on the other side. One of the Nazis is Rudolph (Angus Macfayden), and both Myles and Rudolph fall for local gal Mattie (Jean Butler). Before you ask how Myles and Rudolph could fall for Mattie while locked away in prison, I'll tell you. It seems prison commander O'Brien (Gabriel Byrne, who coproduced this silliness) lets all the prisoners out on day release passes, as long as everyone agrees to return at night. Crazy and nutty, huh? Myles and Mattie, er, discover each other's Blarney Stone, Rudolph turns into one of the really good, nice, polite Nazis, and soon a poorly executed prison break is on. The film makers had such a great opportunity here, it is too bad they squandered it on the sappy Myles/Mattie/Rudy love triangle. An Irish prison containing British and Nazi prisoners? One character calls it a "madhouse," and it should have been. I settled back for some "M*A*S*H"/"Catch-22"-style satire, but by the end of the film I would have been happy with some kicky doofus "Hogan's Heroes"/"Major Dad"-style hi-jinks. Campbell is a blank. He looks good, but is given nothing to do. "Rudolph the Nice Nazi" Macfayden is a villain, then not, then a villain, then not, then... Butler used to be in "Riverdance" so be warned that spontaneous yet flawlessly executed Irish jigging suddenly breaks out midway through the film. William McNamara plays an annoying American movie star, and Byrne just looks dire. The film ends with the most depressing "what ever happened to...?" coda since "American Graffiti," and I was emotionally empty. Sure, you have seen better films about Ireland ("The Quiet Man," "Cowboys & Angels," countless others), but when the British escape plan hinges on getting the Irish guards really drunk, 'cause ALL Irish are a bunch of swarthy alcoholics, you realize one half-baked idea does not make a good film. This story is 80 proof positive of that.