The Butcher Boy
- Comedy
- Drama
Francie and Joe live the usual playful, fantasy filled childhoods of normal boys. However, with a violent, alcoholic father and a manic depressive, suicidal mother the pressure on Francie to grow up are immense. When Francie's world turns to madness, he tries to counter it with further insanity, with dire consequences.
The Butcher Boy is a 1998 dark comedy-drama that follows a young boy navigating an increasingly chaotic world shaped by his parents' mental illness and violence. Directed by Neil Jordan and based on Patrick McCabe's acclaimed novel, the film blends surreal humor with brutal realism as Francie spirals into his own form of madness. Available now as a classic of 1990s cinema.
When does The Butcher Boy come out?
Where to watch
Streaming availability in United States
United StatesNot available on any tracked streaming service in United States right now.
Available in: Austria · Australia · Canada · Switzerland · Germany · Denmark · +13 more
The Butcher Boy is streaming in another region
Available to stream in South Korea— but not in United States.
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In cinemas
Theatrical release in United States
Limited theatrical in United States · Rated R
Theatrical dates from TMDB. Cinema chain links go to the official websites for showtimes and bookings — check there for the actual showtimes near you.
Rent or buy
Digital purchase & rental in United States
Where to watch The Butcher Boy by country
United Kingdom
Greece
Germany
France
Spain
Italy
Canada
Australia
BrazilTop cast
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Eamonn OwensFrancie Brady- Alan BoyleJoe Purcell
Fiona ShawMrs. Nugent
Stephen ReaDa Brady
Ian HartUncle Arlo
Peter GowenLeddy
Sean McGinleySergeant
Aisling O'SullivanMa Brady
John KavanaghDr. Boyd- Andrew FullertonPhillip Nugent
Rosaleen LinehanMrs. Canning- Anita ReevesMrs. Coyle
Sinéad O'ConnorOur Lady/Colleen
Brendan GleesonFather Bubbles
Milo O'SheaFather Sullivan
Trailer
The Butcher Boy ( 1997 ) Trailer
Related & spin-offs
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The Butcher Boy — frequently asked
When was The Butcher Boy released?
The film was released on February 20, 1998.
What is The Butcher Boy about?
It follows Francie, a boy caught between childhood fantasy and the harsh reality of living with an abusive father and mentally ill mother. As his home life deteriorates, Francie responds with increasingly unstable behavior.
What genre is The Butcher Boy?
The film is a dark comedy-drama that mixes surreal humor with serious dramatic themes about mental illness, violence, and childhood trauma.
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