BBC iPlayer now streaming 'one of the best 21st century romances' starring Saoirse Ronan

A Saoirse Ronan drama that had audiences so engrossed they 'didn't want it to end' is now available to watch free on BBC iPlayer.

The Irish starlet, who has been nominated for four Academy Awards, earned her first nod at the tender age of 13. Her second Oscar nomination came at 21 for her role in the John Crowley-directed film, Brooklyn.

The drama features Ronan as Eilis, a young Irish woman who relocates to 1950s Brooklyn for work. Initially struggling with her new surroundings, Eilis soon falls for a local named Tony (Emory Cohen), and becomes enamoured with America.

However, heartbreaking news from Ireland forces her to choose between her homeland and her new residence.

While the plot primarily focuses on the blossoming romance between the main characters, it also tackles weighty themes such as identity and belonging. These subjects were initally explored in Colm Toibin's 2009 novel of the same name, which served as the inspiration for the romantic drama, reports .

The book, longlisted for the 2009 Man Booker Prize, was well-received by readers and critics alike. Its cinematic adaptation was equally successful, boasting an impressive 97 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Critics lauded Ronan's performance, which earned her a Best Leading Actress Oscar nomination, as well as nods at the BAFTA Film Awards and Golden Globes.

Despite not clinching the coveted Oscar, which went to Brie Larson for her performance in Room, audiences remain convinced that Ronan's performance in Brooklyn cemented her status as "one of the best actresses."

A reviewer on Rotten Tomatoes is quoted saying: "Saoirse Ronan shows she's one of the best actresses in film with this stunning portrayal of a young Irish girl from the sticks whose move to New York in the 50s and subsequent ups and downs of life there sees her changing from a wallflower type into a confident young Irish-American woman."

A second viewer hailed the movie as "one of the best romances of the 21st century," with another fan confessing: "I didn't want this film to end."

In summarising their feelings, a particularly enthused cinephile said: "Heart-warming and uplifting. If you love a period drama and a good love story this is the one for you."

Brooklyn is streaming now on BBC iPlayer.