Sanctuary (2016)
A tender, funny, and deeply human Irish love story about two people with intellectual disabilities who simply want to be together.
Sanctuary - Movie Information
Sanctuary - Plot
Larry and Sophie are in love. They bribe Tom to book them into a hotel for an afternoon's tryst and look forward to getting to know each other, like countless couples before them. But Larry and Sophie aren't any couple; they both have intellectual disabilities. Larry has Down's, Sophie has epilepsy and Tom is their carer. In a world that conspires to keep them apart, will love triumph?
Sanctuary - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see what awaits Larry and Sophie in this touching Irish film:
Never Let Love Pass You By
Where to Watch Sanctuary
Looking for where to watch Sanctuary?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Sanctuary - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Len Collin
Main Cast
- Kieran Coppinger
- Charlene Kelly
- Robert Doherty
- Stephen Marcus
- Amy-Joyce Hastings
- Tara Breathnach
- Christopher Dunne
- Caroline Grace-Cassidy
- Christian O'Reilly
- Jennifer Cox
Writers
- Christian O'Reilly
Producers
- Edwina Forkin
Sanctuary - FAQs
What is Sanctuary (2016) about?
Sanctuary follows Larry and Sophie, two adults with intellectual disabilities who are deeply in love. They bribe their carer, Tom, to book them a hotel room for a private afternoon together. It's a warm, funny, and genuinely moving story about the universal desire for intimacy and the right to love freely.
Does Sanctuary have a happy ending?
Without giving too much away, Sanctuary is ultimately a hopeful film. It wrestles honestly with the obstacles society places in the way of people with intellectual disabilities, but its heart is firmly on the side of love. The journey Larry and Sophie share is both bittersweet and deeply affirming.
Where can you stream Sanctuary (2016)?
You can stream Sanctuary on several platforms, including Tubi TV, Pluto TV, Plex, and DistroTV for free (with ads), or catch it on fuboTV and Magnolia Selects Amazon Channel with a subscription. It's widely accessible, so finding a way to watch shouldn't be a problem.
Is Sanctuary based on a true story or stage play?
Sanctuary is adapted from Christian O'Reilly's acclaimed stage play of the same name, which was inspired by real people and real experiences. O'Reilly also wrote the screenplay, keeping the story grounded in authentic emotional truth. The film's intimacy and naturalism reflect its theatrical roots beautifully.
Who are the lead actors in Sanctuary?
The film stars Kieran Coppinger as Larry and Charlene Kelly as Sophie — both delivering remarkably natural, heartfelt performances. Robert Doherty plays Tom, their conflicted carer. Coppinger and Kelly's on-screen chemistry is one of the film's greatest strengths, making their relationship feel completely genuine.
How does Sanctuary portray intellectual disability on screen?
Sanctuary stands out for its respectful, unsentimental portrayal of characters with intellectual disabilities. Rather than reducing Larry and Sophie to objects of pity, the film treats them as fully rounded people with desires, humor, and agency. It's a refreshingly honest depiction that avoids the usual cinematic clichés.
How was Sanctuary received by critics?
Sanctuary earned warm critical praise, particularly for its performances and its sensitive, non-patronizing approach to its subject matter. Critics highlighted the film's gentle humor, emotional honesty, and the outstanding chemistry between its two leads. It was widely recognized as a small but genuinely significant Irish film.
What are some films similar to Sanctuary?
If Sanctuary resonated with you, you might enjoy other warmhearted romantic dramas like Jack Goes Boating (2010), Chéri (2009), or Which Brings Me to You (2023). These films share Sanctuary's focus on unconventional relationships, emotional authenticity, and the quiet courage it takes to pursue connection.
More About Sanctuary
Explore further details about Sanctuary on these trusted film databases.