After almost ten years, one of Volvo's best wagons ever has officially reached its conclusion. Volvo has discontinued the production of the V90 and V90 Cross Country, with nearly 250,000 units produced since the model's introduction in 2016. Now, the V60 is left as Volvo’s only estate, though its future appears uncertain. Estate cars are gradually becoming a rarity, and one of the most notable examples has just come to an end. Following nine years of production, Volvo has decided to discontinue the V90 and V90 Cross Country, leaving only the smaller V60 as the brand's remaining estate vehicle. While this decision has been anticipated for some time, it is still disappointing for wagon enthusiasts. The V90 was launched in 2016 and received a subtle facelift in 2020. Despite its age, the V90 remains an attractive option, offering various powertrain configurations to appeal to different customers. These options ranged from a 2.0-liter turbodiesel with as little as 148 hp to a turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder petrol delivering 316 hp, as well as a petrol hybrid producing a combined 455 hp. A Fitting Farewell During its production run, nearly 250,000 units were manufactured, with the final unit now added to the Volvo Heritage Collection, where it will be showcased at the World of Volvo museum in Gothenburg, Sweden, alongside models like the Volvo 145, Volvo 960, and Amazon P220. The V90 has been on the brink of discontinuation in several markets for some time. In mid-2023, Volvo announced it would be phased out in the UK, alongside the S90, S60, and V60, as the brand shifted toward an all-SUV lineup. However, less than a year after that announcement, Volvo revealed it had reopened orders for the V60 and V90 in the UK due to a rise in demand. For the time being, the smaller V60 remains in production, though its future seems uncertain. Debuting in 2018, it is possible it may be discontinued after the 2026 model year, signaling a quiet end to Volvo’s longstanding legacy of estate cars.

      Saipan, 2025.

      Directed by Glenn Leyburn and Lisa Barros D’Sa.

      Starring Steve Coogan, Éanna Hardwicke, Jack Hickey, Harriet Cains, Alice Lowe, Jamie Beamish, Alex Murphy, and Peter McDonald.

      SYNOPSIS:

      On the night before the 2002 FIFA World Cup, Irish captain Roy Keane relinquishes his position in the squad at the team’s training base in Saipan after a tense clash with the Irish manager Mick McCarthy.

      The conflict between Mick McCarthy and then Republic of Ireland captain Roy Keane has become legendary in both the UK and Ireland. Even 23 years after the incident during the 2002 World Cup, it remains a significant moment, and it has now been brought to life by Glenn Leyburn and Lisa Barros D’Sa in Saipan. Steve Coogan plays McCarthy while Éanna Hardwicke portrays Keane, chronicling the weeks and months leading up to the incident at the training camp in Saipan and the days before what was expected to be a pivotal moment for both Keane as a player and McCarthy as a manager.

      The film begins with a montage showcasing responses to the incident, interspersed with real footage of Keane and McCarthy’s careers set to "Acquiesce" by Oasis. This compelling introduction highlights the fallout's significance and Keane's crucial role in Irish aspirations. He was indeed a key player in the Manchester United squad assembled by Alex Ferguson.

      Steve Coogan has established a career through impersonations, from his portrayal of Tony Wilson in 24 Hour Party People to Paul Raymond and Stan Laurel. McCarthy is the newest character in this lineup, though Coogan is nearly 20 years older than McCarthy now. Nevertheless, once the core of the story unfolds, it’s easy to become immersed in the events. Hardwicke effectively captures Roy Keane's famously confrontational demeanor, which ultimately escalates due to poor planning for the Irish training camp. The performances from both actors keep the audience engaged, and the meticulous attention to detail from the directors and screenwriter Paul Fraser successfully recreates the 2002 World Cup and its preparations.

      It may seem absurd to center a feature film on this story, but all participants take the narrative seriously. Instead of feeling like a gimmick or relying too heavily on pastiche, it possesses genuine heart and emphasizes the significance of the incident for not only the football community but also for Irish society.

      The film expertly reflects the era with a soundtrack saturated in Madchester and indie influences, featuring bands like The Stone Roses and Fontaines D.C., alongside Oasis. Hardwicke and Coogan portray the volatile relationship between the two men, showcasing their differing styles and personalities. Fans of Irish football and those who experienced the time will find ample moments to reminisce, while viewers less acquainted with the events may be inspired to explore the complete story.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★

      Chris Connor