Why Irish Critics Dislike Netflix’s House of Guinness

entertaining romp through 1860s Dublin. The Guardian called it “irresistible,” the BBC said “plenty of people will happily gulp it down,” and the Los Angeles Times described it as “good craic.”

The series, which debuted this week with an 89% audience approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, has been praised for its captivating storyline and beautiful production. Despite its success with international audiences, House of Guinness has faced harsh criticism from Irish critics who have not been impressed with the show.

Critics in Ireland have taken issue with the show’s depiction of Irish history, dialogue, costumes, and lighting. The Irish Times criticized the “rudimentary understanding of Ireland’s experiences of colonialism” and the lack of appreciation for the Anglo-Irish identity. The show’s portrayal of revolutionaries, the Fenians, was described as dressing and speaking like “feral leprechauns.”

Despite the negative reception from Irish critics, the show has received praise for its performances, soundtrack, and sets. The English actor James Norton, who plays the heart-throb hard man, has been commended for his performance and accent. The show’s creator, Steven Knight, known for Peaky Blinders, filmed most of the series in Liverpool with a mix of Irish and British actors and set the action to contemporary Irish bands like Fontaines DC and Kneecap.

While some feel that the show falls short in capturing the complexities of Irish history and politics, others have found it to be an entertaining and visually stunning drama. The Guardian gave it five stars, praising Knight’s ability to bring period dramas to life. National Public Radio noted that while some accents were hard to understand, the story and intrigue translated effectively.

Despite the mixed reviews, House of Guinness continues to draw in audiences with its blend of drama, history, and stunning visuals. While some may find fault with its portrayal of Irish culture and history, others appreciate the show for its entertainment value and immersive storytelling. Whether viewers love it or hate it, House of Guinness is sparking conversations and debates about how Ireland’s history is represented on the screen.