Saw it at weekend, and thoroughly enjoyed it. Someone drew a parallel with 'Good night Mr Tom', but I would argue that it is much more remeniscent of 'The Shootist', John Wayne's last film.
At his age, 78, Clint Eastwood may be considered by some, like the Kevin Barry's of this world, to be too old to act. Who would he suggest? Colin Farrel in Make -up? Steven Rhea with a wrinkle mask? The story is about an old man, one who fought in Korea ( For the info of The IRA lovers, that was in the 1050's, ) and that would make an 18 year old now around 76, hence being played by a 78 year old actor.