Michael Collins, The Wind Rises, Bloody Sunday, The Boxer, In the Name of the Father, Omagh, The Hunger… These are not films about the endless and terrible civil war that bled Northern Ireland. And, fortunately, often very good films, even masterpieces. To be a bit more comprehensive, we should add to this table a great movie that came out to us in 2014 and is available on Netflix: ’71.
The story takes place in the city of Belfast in 1971. When the conflict escalates into civil war, Gary (an impeccable Jack O’Connell), a young English recruit, is sent to the front. The city is in a state of confusion, divided between Protestants and Catholics.
While patrolling an area under resistance, his unit was ambushed. Gary finds himself alone, trapped in enemy territory. He will have to fight to the end to try to get back to his base in peace…
The first feature film of French expatriate in London, Jan Demange, who also signed a solid series (Top Boy), it was after reading the script of Gregory Burke (of Scottish descent) that he agreed to do this drama, but asked. For a few changes and additions, such as the theme of children growing up in such a hostile environment.
“I was interested in the idea, because I grew up in London in the shadow of this conflict, which was always on television, in newspapers, in conversations … Neither I nor my family, being French, really had it. find out what was going on” Demang explained.
who added: “There was material to transform those specific events into something more universal and timely.” ’71 Belfast causes any ongoing conflict. It could be in Syria, Afghanistan or the Middle East. It was much more than the situation in Northern Ireland that convinced me to make this film.”
Result ? A realistic work, tense to the point of explosion, imbued with a real sense of urgency, with maddened craftsmanship, about the years of lead that bled Ireland. He also allowed Demange to be quoted twice BAFTA Awards And you won British Independent Film Awards For Best Director. If you haven’t seen this powerful film yet, you know what to do.
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
