Films that I have enjoyed

A unique experience. The languid flow of the original version (cut in 1976) is superior to the re-edit. Such a pace is both its strength and its weakness.
i.e. its excellent, freeing, but too long.

This is a hard one to call. OK, first, the good stuff.

This is an exceptionally well made film. It has recieved a mixed reception in some quarters. I will assume it has something to do with its controversial subject matter - which perhaps is a tad unfair as it is historically accurate - and a finale which some argue descends into moving but slightly benign and closed martyr centric iconography - which is a far more valid point. I can see why people have such criticisms, but to be honest I cannot fully endorse them, mainly because the film is just so plainly overwhelming. Exceptionally acted, exceptionally shot and put together, it is an incredibly immersive, cinematic experience. It was one of the few films that i have actually sat, after the end credits started to roll, in the darkness of the cinema, totally bowled over by the whole experience. The second best film of 2008 in my book (the best being There will be Blood.) The fact that it has been relatively ignored during the awards season is a travesty, especially when far less daring and affecting films such as milk, frost/nixon and yes, even slumdog millionaire are getting acknowledged. I am willing to say it if no one else will, they are all not as good as this film.

Ok, now the bad stuff.

There is a troubling element in its representation of the IRA. The films grounded depiction of the prison guard, while thoroughly credible and welcome, presents itself more as a token nod for the sake of balance, and is quickly forgotten as the emphasis is put on Bobby Sands in the final 2 thirds of the film. Whether intended or not, you can't help but admire the determination and presence that defines Bobby Sands character in this film. In extension, (and perhaps due to the way Bobby is presented to us in the 'dialogue' scene) you can't help but sympathise with the politically charged ideals which characterise this determination. For me at least, the way my empathy was elicited, along with the power of the film, led to a personal 'condoning' of the terrorist organisation he was apart of. If you're not an Irish republican, or if you previously had no time for noxious republican brain chatter, this of course is quite troubling.

If you are like me, such empathy will provoke much internal debate as to the official perceptions of the troubles in my country (Republic of Ireland,) as well as the violent origins of the Irish free state and the south's official attitudes toward the old and new IRA.

It will also provoke much thought as to the merits of the powerful cinematic image, in light of the 'truth' it imposes on the viewer.

If it wasn't for that queasy last point, I would have given the film another half a star at least.

Well worth a look. watch it please.

Worth a look.

While some might interpret the ambiguous treatment of certain plot points to be a 'get out of jail fee card' in terms of dramatic progression, the meditative pace is never taxing on the bum and offers up some choice moments. It also encourages a pensive mood in the viewer, one which leaves you with a nice glow afterwards.

The cast are rock solid, with special mention going to Scott Wilson and Amy Adams, who are really amazing in this.

Potent. if i wasn't bothered by its romanticising of mob culture and its rose tinted celebration of the 'alpha male,' I would consider this brilliantly constructed, beautiful looking treasure as my favorite film, along with the sequel.