Saoirse Ronan’s acting prowess is undeniable, much like the fact that water is inherently wet. Over the span of nearly two decades, this 30-year-old Irish actress has delivered consistently remarkable performances, even in films that fall short of perfection. Her latest endeavor, “The Outrun,” is no exception. In this film, Ronan takes on the role of Rona, a recovering alcoholic, marking another stellar addition to her impressive filmography. This project holds special significance for Ronan as it also represents her debut as a producer. Adapted from Amy Liptrot’s 2016 memoir, “The Outrun” is deeply personal, and Ronan’s portrayal of Rona is infused with palpable pain and fierce determination.

The narrative follows Rona’s tumultuous journey toward sobriety as she returns to her parents’ home in the remote Orkney Islands of Scotland. Contrary to the expectation that community support is essential for recovery, Rona seeks solace in isolation. She ventures further into the Orkneys, immersing herself in bird research and the harsh natural environment. This desolate landscape becomes her sanctuary, where she finds a sense of healing and connection amidst the frigid ocean waters and rugged terrain.

Yunus Roy Imer’s cinematography significantly enhances the film’s impact. His use of red-light-soaked flashes to depict Rona’s intoxicated memories contrasts sharply with breathtaking shots of the raw, beautiful Scottish landscape. The film employs canted angles and unusual perspectives to highlight the stark allure of the vistas, mirroring the tumultuous state of Rona’s inner world.

Ronan’s performance is a masterclass in conveying raw emotion. She embodies Rona’s anguish with unflinching honesty, capturing the despair and fear that sobriety might never bring happiness. A particularly poignant scene shows Rona resisting the urge to drink by sniffing and then dipping a finger into a stagnant glass of wine, a moment that underscores the immense self-control she must exert constantly. Ronan seamlessly transitions from Rona’s quiet desperation to her wild, drunken episodes with remarkable dexterity, never missing a beat.

Director Nora Fingscheidt, who co-wrote the screenplay with Liptrot, adeptly captures the fragmented nature of Rona’s alcohol-fueled memories. The film effectively evokes the disjointed recollections that often resurface unexpectedly after a night of drinking.

Without Ronan’s exceptional talent, “The Outrun” could easily have fallen into the trap of being a clichéd addiction drama. However, Ronan’s profound performance, set against the sublime backdrop of the evocative Orkney Island landscapes, elevates the film to a poignant exploration of overcoming personal demons and learning to appreciate life in its rawest form. This compelling narrative earns the film a commendable grade: B.