Forever Is Now Review: Eamon Ryan Political Documentary 2026

Forever Is Now review: this political documentary about former Irish Green leader Eamon Ryan offers a compelling look at his final 18 months in government. Directed by [Director's Name], the film has been likened to The Thick of It but with morals, providing a rare fly-on-the-wall insight into the life of a principled politician.

Forever Is Now Review: A Political Study with Heart

Forever Is Now is not your typical political documentary. It follows Eamon Ryan, former leader of the Irish Green Party and cabinet minister, as he navigates the turbulent waters of coalition government. Unlike the cynical satire of The Thick of It, this film presents a politician who is principled, likable, and extremely hard working. Even accounting for the favourable portrait, Ryan emerges as one of the good guys.

The documentary captures his final 18 months as minister for the environment and transport before stepping down in 2025. The title comes from his 25-year-old son Tommy, who is autistic and requires full-time care. Tommy repeats the phrase "Forever … forever … forever," a poignant refrain that underscores Ryan's decision to resign and spend more time with his family.

Key Takeaways from Forever Is Now

• Intimate portrait: The film balances public duty with private moments, showing Ryan at the allotment with Tommy and walking the dog.
• Political challenges: Cameras follow Ryan as he deals with angry residents of flood-hit towns and attends UN and COP conferences.
• Media scrutiny: His media adviser, Edel Hackett, described as "Malcolm Tucker with morals," handles online abuse and harassment.
• Family focus: Ryan's commitment to his son is a central theme, highlighting the personal sacrifices of political life.

Comparing Forever Is Now to The Thick of It

While The Thick of It is known for its biting satire and hapless politicians, Forever Is Now offers a more earnest look at governance. The table below highlights key differences:

Behind the Scenes: Eamon Ryan's Journey

The documentary provides unprecedented access to Ryan's life, from the corridors of power to his home in Dublin. We see him grappling with environmental crises, such as flooding, and engaging with international leaders at COP conferences. His media adviser, Edel Hackett, is a standout figure, managing the relentless pressure of public scrutiny with a moral compass.

One of the most touching moments is when Ryan explains his resignation, citing the need to care for Tommy. The film subtly shows the toll that political life takes on family, without delving too deeply into private matters. It's a reminder that politicians are human too. The background to this story is set out in After the Snowmelt Review: A Devastating Act of Remembrance.

FAQ

Overall, Forever Is Now is a must-watch for anyone interested in politics, environmental issues, or the human side of leadership. It offers a refreshing alternative to typical political documentaries, showing that integrity still exists in public service.