The Crush

A whimsical Irish short film that finds dark comedy in a child's innocent romantic delusion, blending western-movie fantasy with the genuine heartbreak of unrequited love.

Eight-year-old Ardal has a romantic heart and a passionate crush on his second-class teacher, Ms Purdy. But his dreams of marrying his love are dashed when she becomes engaged to her boyfriend, who Ardal deems entirely unacceptable. Inspired by his favourite western movies, he decides that his only course of action is to challenge his rival to a duel.