Four Letters of Love Release Date, Storyline, and Everything You Need to Know
New adaptation: Niall Williams’ beloved novel returns to the big screen in the heart of Ireland’s scenic landscapes with “Four Letters of Love,” a heady romantic drama with a pedigree cast that includes Pierce Brosnan, Helena Bonham Carter, and Gabriel Byrne. This much-anticipated film is expected to recreate Williams’ internationally sensational story while highlighting the Emerald Isle’s breathtaking natural landscape.
Four Letters of Love Release Date
“Four Letters of Love” world premiered at the Dublin International Film Festival on February 27, 2025. After gaining a positive reception at the festival, the film had its Irish/UK limited theatrical release on April 25, 2025, and was distributed by Vertigo Films.
It opened in North America on June 19, 2025, and was gradually rolled out in the international market over the summer months. As of late July 2025, the film was available via Digital and streaming (+ VOD) on all primary video-on-demand services.
DVD/Blu-ray vintages with behind-the-scenes featurettes, plus director commentary, go to press for an October 2025 debut on physical media. Its release was traditional, running from festival to theater to home, meaning the picture had this whole critical buzz and word-of-mouth cycle before hitting more mainstream platforms.
Irish Romance Star-Studded Cast Global Audiences
Four Letters of Love combines a powerful tale of destiny, family, and spiritual connection with the talents of an exquisitely assembled cast, which includes world-renowned actors and bright new talent. Rooted in the mythical tidal landscapes of Ireland, the film unfolds two intertwined journeys: love, loss, and destiny.
| Actor | Character | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pierce Brosnan | William Coughlan | Nicholas’s father leaves civil service after a spiritual awakening to pursue painting. |
| Helena Bonham Carter | Margaret Gore | Isabel’s insightful mother, who believes in mystical bonds and guides her family through turmoil |
| Gabriel Byrne | Muirish Gore | Isabel’s father, a poetic schoolmaster representing Irish tradition and wisdom |
| Fionn O’Shea | Nicholas Coughlan | A young man is searching for purpose after his father’s life-altering decision. |
| Ann Skelly | Isabel Gore | A young woman from a remote island whose life is redirected by tragedy and longing |
| Donal Finn | Sean Gore | Isabel’s brother, a gifted musician whose tragic fate leaves lasting ripples |
| Ferdia Walsh-Peelo | Peadar | A charming companion on Isabel’s journey toward self-discovery and love |
Four Letters of Love’s Storyline
At heart, the film is about Nicholas Coughlan (O’Shea) and Isabel Gore (Skelly), two souls fated to meet through life’s many hurdles. Their parallel journeys are sparked when Nicholas’s father William (Brosnan) receives what he thinks is a divine message from God urging him to give up his civil service job and become a painter. This radical life shift leaves his wife Bette and son Nicholas to fend for themselves.
Meanwhile, Isabelle enjoys an idyllic life on an Irish Island with her poet father, Muirish (Byrne), and intuitive mother, Margaret (Bonham Carter). Her life is torn apart when a muscle-bound fit hits her brother Sean, a musical prodigy who plays music while she dances. Burdened by guilt, Isabel leaves for school on the mainland for escape and renewal.
The question isn’t whether these two belong together — that’s a given,” says the director, Steele. “The real question is, will they discover this truth despite all the forces that want to pull them apart?” The film resonates through its themes of faith, destiny, and the cosmic threads connecting human hearts across time and space.
Where To Watch Four Letters Of Love
“Four Letters of Love” is available on various viewing platforms. For those who prefer to view it on the big screen, the film plays in select cinemas across the country as part of a limited theatrical run. For home viewing, the film streams on Premium Video On Demand (PVOD) services, such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Google Play. The film is also available for purchase or rental on Vudu and the Microsoft Store.
Regional streaming services will differ for international audiences; The Reset Collective will handle the distribution in Australia and New Zealand, while Vertigo Films will manage the distribution in the UK and Ireland. As always, you should check your local listings for specifics in your area.
Ireland’s Landscape: A Love Letter In Four Letters
Filmed on location throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, the movie features the country’s sweeping natural beauty. Cinematographer Damien Elliott captures the lush, green countryside scenery and commanding coastal views that have long inspired Irish poet-scribblers.
“The Irish landscape is not just the backdrop; it’s almost a character itself,” notes the cinematographer, Elliott. “The shifting skies, the rugged coastlines, the golden beaches — each one an insight into the emotional journey of our characters.”
Filming began in February 2023 in the counties of Donegal and Antrim. The production team, led by John Leslie (the designer), worked tirelessly to recreate the novel’s setting with authentic period details from the 1970s.
The movie’s look favors natural sunlight, with many sun-dappled scenes imparting the themes of divine inspiration and cosmic connection at the story’s heart. Blue skies and golden beaches offer a fairytale landscape that pairs beautifully with the drama’s exploration of destiny and fate.
Literary Legacy On Screen With European Production
Williams’ novel, initially published in 1997, was an international phenomenon and has been translated into over 30 languages. The adaptation will be an excellent opportunity to introduce new audiences to this beloved story while paying homage to its literary origins.
“It’s irresistible, this book, Niall Williams’ first novel,” the co-producer Douglas Cummins says. “It’s a tremendous privilege to bring this story to the screen so that new audiences can experience what readers worldwide have embraced for decades.”
The film brings together talent from across the world of cinema. Cornerstone oversees worldwide sales and distribution, kickstarting the project at the European Film Market to coincide with the Berlinale. The Reset Collective is handling distribution for Australia and New Zealand, and Vertigo has acquired rights for release in the UK and Ireland.
“Irish storytelling is riding a wave of success in international markets,” observes Cornerstone’s Alison Thompson and Mark Gooder. “We are thrilled to offer this sumptuous, romantic classic to buyers worldwide.” The motion picture is partly funded by Northern Ireland Screen, which continues to build international acclaim for why Ireland is a great place to film.
Making of: Four Letters of Love
A talented, creative team assembles the film. Production designer John Leslie builds period-correct sets that transport viewers to 1970s Ireland. Costume designer Susan Scott creates wardrobe pieces that echo the era and the characters’ emotional journeys.
Hair and makeup designer Natalie Reid collaborates with the cast to fashion natural, authentic makeup looks that respect the era in which the story takes place and let the emotional performances shine through. Bringing his considerable expertise to the narrative flow is editor Chris Gill ACE.
The production is a genuine team endeavor, with a trio of producers — Debbie Gray (of Good Luck to You, Leo Grande) and Douglas Cummins (Let Me Go) leading the charge. Martina Niland, co-producer of“Onc” and“Sing Street,” brings valuable experience when bringing Irish musical stories to the world.
Music is an integral part of the film, with original compositions adding to the emotional weight of critical scenes. Singer-songwriter Johnny Flynn, who has some acting chops, segments his efforts between the two jobs, co-writing and performing the title song for the film.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who’s in the cast of Four Letters of Love?
Pierce Brosnan, Helena Bonham Carter, Gabriel Byrne, Fionn O’Shea, and Ann Skelly star in the film’s leading roles.
When was the film released?
It premiered at the Dublin International Film Festival in February 2025 and is scheduled for a theatrical release in June 2025.
What is the story about?
The film features Nicholas Coughlan and Isabel Gore, two young people fated to meet despite the obstacles life throws their way. Their parallel journeys are set in motion when Nicholas’s father gets what he thinks is a divine message from God.
When was Four Letters of Love filmed?
It was filmed in locations throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, mainly in the counties of Donegal and Antrim.
Who directed the film?
Polly Steele directed it from a screenplay by the original novelist, Niall Williams.
Final Thoughts
In an industry replete with formula, “Four Letters of Love” represents an exception to the rule: the film is a beating, honest, and dutiful tribute to Irish culture and humanity. With its sensational cast, stunning locations, and universal themes, this adaptation will breathe colorful new life into Williams’ beloved novel for a new generation to enjoy. Now, with the film set for global release, it’s a giddy time for loyal readers and those new to the book and the uniquely Irish story of fate, faith, and lasting devotion that fuels it.
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