Circle of Friends (1994)

Circle of Friends (1994) unfolds in the picturesque landscapes of 1950s Ireland, focusing on the lives of three inseparable friends: Bernadette "Benny" Hogan, Eve Malone, and Nan Mahon. Raised in the quaint town of Knockglen, the trio's bond is tested as they navigate the challenges of adulthood. Eight years later, Nan has already moved to Dublin, while Benny and Eve graduate from their local convent school and embark on their university journey in the bustling city. Eve's education is generously supported by the affluent Westward family, who also bequeath her a charming cottage on their estate. Meanwhile, Benny faces the dilemma of commuting daily between home and Dublin, as her parents are reluctant to let her go, preferring she marry the unappealing Sean Walsh, her father's loyal employee. In Dublin, the girls reunite with the sophisticated and alluring Nan, who effortlessly captivates the attention of men. Benny finds herself drawn to Jack Foley, a handsome rugby player and medical student, while Eve starts dating Aidan, a friend of Jack's. Nan, however, becomes entangled with the much older Simon Westward, whom she strategically encounters at a lunch. As Benny and Jack's relationship deepens, Benny remains steadfast in resisting a physical relationship, while Nan succumbs to her desires, believing Simon's love for her is genuine.