How Harry Became a Tree (2001) is a darkly comic Irish drama that explores obsession, pride, and the destructive nature of grudges. Set in rural Ireland, the film blends satire with emotional depth, offering a sharp portrait of small-town power and personal resentment.
Harry Maloney believes that a man’s worth is defined by his enemies, a philosophy that drives him to fixate on George O’Flaherty, the most influential figure in town. George’s control over local businesses and his role as a matchmaker make him both respected and untouchable, intensifying Harry’s sense of rivalry.
While Harry secretly plots to undermine George, his personal life reveals a colder reality. He directs emotional and verbal abuse toward his son Gus, creating a strained and painful family dynamic. Gus’s quiet vulnerability stands in stark contrast to Harry’s bitterness.
The story takes an ironic turn when George helps Gus find love with Eileen. This act of kindness further exposes Harry’s moral emptiness and highlights the difference between genuine influence and corrosive power.
