What begins as a light-hearted comedy quickly takes an emotional turn in a film that has recently made its debut on Netflix, despite originally releasing in 2022.
Viewers expecting a typical, feel-good watch have found themselves unexpectedly moved, with many taking to social media to share their reactions.
One viewer wrote on X: “Watched on Netflix thinking it was going to be a silly little comedy film with Olivia Colman…. I’m SOBBING.”
Others echoed the sentiment, sharing that they were deeply affected by the film’s final scenes.
Describing the experience of watching the film, another shares: “Oh, blimey. An absolute joy of a film… Tender, funny and warm. It was just what I needed tonight.”
A further simply says: “I’ve so many words but very little to explain just how amazing this film is… just watch it!”trew
The film stars Colman alongside newcomers Charlie Reid and Lochlann Ó Mearáin.
At first glance, it seems like a quirky road-trip comedy, but as the story unfolds, it reveals a heartfelt and touching narrative that has caught viewers off guard.
The story revolves around Mully, a teenager grieving the recent loss of his mother to cancer.
When he discovers his father is misusing charity funds raised in her name, Mully takes the money and impulsively drives off in a taxi—only to discover that Joy, a middle-aged woman with a newborn baby and a serious hangover, occupies it.
Played by Colman, Joy is a solicitor grappling with the emotional fallout of an unexpected late-in-life pregnancy.
Initially strangers with little in common, Mully and Joy form an unlikely bond as they traverse Ireland’s back roads, avoiding detection while confronting their own traumas.
Their journey becomes not just a physical escape but an emotional reckoning—one that transforms both characters.
Colman herself was drawn to the role from the start.
Speaking about her character, per Metro, she said, “I couldn’t get her out of my head once I’d read the script. I loved how it was all put together. I loved the story and I really wanted to do it.”
Reflecting on Joy’s complexity, she added: “She’s very independent, quite fierce… Partly why she doesn’t want this baby is that she doesn’t want to be as bad as her own mum was and she’s terrified of that.”
Joyride is currently streaming on Netflix and has quickly become a sleeper hit, with its blend of humor and heart resonating with audiences in a deeply unexpected way.
