Into the West with chocolate Guinness cupcakes

There were so many great Irish-themed movies to consider for this post. The Quiet Man, The Secret or Roan Inish, Waking Ned Devine, Circle of Friends, Widow's Peak. So many great films, but I chose a film that I'm not sure received much attention when it came out. Into the West came out in 1992 (not the 2005 Western with the same name). The film stars Gabriel Byrne as a Traveler (Ireland's term for gypsies) with two young sons. Papa has turned from the Traveler life since his wife died and things aren't going so well for the boys. All that changes when the children find a horse, a horse they believe is magical. Off they go on the horse's back as it leads them into the west. Papa has to join up with his traveler family and friends to follow the boys on their adventure, facing his fears and his history. I won't spoil the end for you, but you'll either think it is a bit sappy or lovely, depending upon your mood. I personally find the film charming and I love the two little boys. There is some great scenery of Ireland as well and you get to hear Ellen Barkin trying out an Irish brogue.

If the Guinness bread and Irish Stew weren't enough for you, here is a recipe that sounds delicious. Chocolate cupcakes made with Guinness, topped with chocolate ganache and finished with Bailey's buttercream. The recipe can be found at The Cupcakery. It's always nice to discovery a new blog about cupcakes. Go check it out!