Turning Green

Seventeen-year-old James Powers moves to Ireland after the death of his mother, which uproots him and his younger brother Pete. They are taken in by their aunts, thrusting James into an unfamiliar rural environment where he feels isolated and disconnected from his American roots.

As time passes, James struggles to adapt to his new life in Ireland. School becomes monotonous, and he battles feelings of alienation while facing cultural differences that heighten his sense of boredom and frustration.

While James struggles, his brother Pete surprisingly thrives in their new surroundings. James finds solace in the friendship of Tom, a gruff fisherman who becomes a father figure of sorts, offering understanding amidst his turbulent adolescence.

After Tom faces financial struggles due to betting losses, James decides to help him sell his boat. This choice benefits both of them, as it provides James with much-needed funds to deal with his own financial troubles.

James develops a crush on Fiona, the most beautiful girl in town, but feels too insecure to approach her. His aunts notice his withdrawn behavior and decide to send him to London for a few days in hopes of addressing his emotional struggles.

While in London, James stumbles upon an opportunity to import forbidden adult materials back to Ireland. This venture represents a potential escape from his mundane life, prompting him to strike a deal with a local newsagent.

James returns to Ireland, eager to dive into his new business venture. However, he is immediately confronted by the complications that arise from mixing his newfound ambitions with questionable morality.

In a racetrack toilet, James encounters Bill the Bookie, who grows suspicious of James's activities. This interaction foreshadows the tension that will arise as Bill begins to investigate James's financial affairs.

Bill the Breaker takes advantage of James's vulnerability and delivers a brutal beating, warning him about the dangers of his illicit activities. This violent encounter highlights the precarious position James has placed himself in.

Hastily seeking refuge, James visits Tom, only to discover that Tom has also been badly beaten. Disappointment leads Tom to expel James from his life, leaving James feeling even more isolated in a world he is struggling to navigate.

Despite his setbacks, James launches into a new entrepreneurial phase, trading magazines and significantly expanding his business. His success instills him with a sense of hope and ambition, allowing him to envision a brighter future.

As James's ventures prosper, he begins to shift his perception of home and life in Ireland. He acknowledges the simple joys of life and starts to see Ireland in a new light, different from his initial view.

Building on his newfound confidence, James finally musters the courage to ask Fiona out on a date. This moment marks a significant turning point in his journey toward self-acceptance and belonging.

Meanwhile, Bill the Bookie becomes increasingly aware of the influx of magazines, linking them back to James. His determination to shut down James's venture escalates the tension, as James braces for the fallout.

At a pivotal cliffside moment, James is faced with the consequences of his actions. This reflection forces him to confront his choices and the path he has taken, symbolizing a deeper struggle between desire and responsibility.