Simply world class: Saoirse Ronan plays like a force of nature in the new film “The Outrun”.

Towering whitecaps, black-blue water and thunderous hits on the sand: the sea definitely plays a leading role in the new film “The Outrun” (in cinemas from December 5th). Not as a tranquil, dreamy bathtub. But concrete, wild, unbending and dark. Not to be pushed against the wall by this presence? Actually not that easy. For Saoirse Ronan it is.

She gave a taste of her casual clout on the “Graham Norton Show” on October 25th. As she casually interrupted her male colleagues Denzel Washington, Eddie Redmayne and Paul Mescal's jokes about self-defense on the show. And went viral with the words: “Women think about it all the time, right girls?” Yes, no matter how delicate she may seem, the 30-year-old US actress with Irish roots has at least as much power as an ocean.

The film is based on the award-winning, best-selling autobiographical novel “Night Lights” by Scottish author Amy Liptrot. In which the young Rona (Saoirse Ronan) returns to her lonely home on the Scottish Orkney Islands after ten dissolute years in London, addicted to alcohol and broken. But even though she deeply hopes for peace, she constantly stumbles over her deep wounds. Also from her childhood.

While she exposes herself to the vastness and harshness of this area, looks after sheep with her old father, and goes ice bathing with her long-estranged mother, her social contacts shrink to a minimum. Instead, Rona is relentlessly tormented by the events of the last few years - by her attempts at liberation and all the setbacks. But thanks to the harsh nature on the islands, she gradually gets the chance for a new life.

There hasn't been such a fearless film in a long time! Thanks to the story behind it, but also thanks to Saoirse Ronan. Despite the numerous jumps in time, she plays her character so fantastically and captivatingly that you almost forget to breathe at times. Actually not surprising. Back in 2007, the daughter of Irish actor Paul Ronan was born as young Briony Nominated for a Golden Globe and an Oscar in “Atonement” when she was just 13 years old. Three more Oscar chances followed (“Brooklyn,” Lady Bird,” “Little Women”) until she was finally honored with the Golden Globe in 2018 for “Lady Bird.” So much for the official data.

“The Outrun” joins their successes, but clearly also goes beyond them. As if Saoirse Ronan was taking herself to a new level. This may be because Saoirse (which means “freedom” in Irish) co-produced the film. Above all, her playing ensures that Rona never loses her dignity. Even in the deepest descent, great ferocity still shines from her eyes, which have been swollen shut by punches. Our conclusion: “The Outrun” is a moving manifesto for the healing power of nature. If you just let them and aren't afraid of your own demons.