Films about Irish freedom often depict the struggle for independence, the fight against colonial rule, and the quest for national identity. These films capture the spirit of the Irish people's determination to break free from oppression and establish their own sovereignty. They often portray historical events, key figures, and the emotional and physical toll of the struggle for freedom.
“Michael Collins”, 1996
Director: Neil Jordan
This historical biopic directed by Neil Jordan follows the life of Irish revolutionary leader Michael Collins, played by Liam Neeson. The film explores Collins' role in the Irish War of Independence and the subsequent Civil War, shedding light on his efforts to secure independence from British rule.
Starring: Liam Neeson, Aidan Quinn, Stephen Rea, Alan Rickman, Julia Roberts, Ian Hart, Richard Ingram, John Kenny, Ronan McCairbre, Jer O'Leary, Brendan Gleeson, Stuart Graham, Sean McGinley, Gerard McSorley, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Charles Dance, Owen O'Neill, Owen Roe, Ian McElhinney, Mike Dwyer, Martin Murphy, Gary Whelan, Frank O'Sullivan, Frank Laverty, Liam De Staic, Paul Bennett, Claude Clancy, Paul Hickey, Tom Murphy, David Gorry, Gary Lydon, David Wilmot, Joe Hanley, Colm Coogan, Aiden Grennell, Dave Seymour, Tony Clarkin, Luke Hayden, Gary Powell, Max Hafler, Laura Brennan, Aidan Kelly, Jim Isherwood, Michael James Ford, Mal Whyte, Martin Phillips, Aisling O'Sullivan, Malcolm Douglas, Brian «Joker» Mulvey, Frank Patterson;
Production year: 1996;
Genre: thriller, drama, war, biography;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 133 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “Michael Collins” on the website imdb.com
“The Wind That Shakes the Barley”, 2006
Director: Ken Loach
Directed by Ken Loach, this film is set during the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War. It follows the story of two brothers who become involved in the Irish Republican Army and find themselves on opposing sides during the Civil War, highlighting the complexities and sacrifices of the struggle for freedom.
Starring: Cillian Murphy, Pádraic Delaney, Liam Cunningham, Orla Fitzgerald, Mary O'Riordan, Mary Murphy, Laurence Barry, Damien Kearney, Frank Bourke, Myles Horgan, Martin Lucey, Aidan O'Hare, Shane Casey, John Crean, Máirtín de Cógáin, Keith Dunphy, Kiernan Hegarty, Gerard Kearney, Shane Nott, Kevin O'Brien, Gary McCarthy, Tim O'Mahon, Graham Browne, Owen Buckley, Aidan Fitzpatrick, Vince Hannington, Denis Kelleher, Colin McClery, Finbar O'Mahon, John Quinlan, Peggy Lynch, Noel O'Donovan, Peter O'Mahoney, Barry Bourke, Frank O'Sullivan, Diarmuid Ó'Dálaigh, Corina Gough, Roger Allam, Sabrina Barry, William Ruane, Danny Riordan, Peg Crowley, Fiona Lawton, Kieran Aherne, Clare Dineen, Sean McGinley, Tomas OhEalaithe, Nora Lynch, Diarmuid Ní Mheachair, Denis Conway;
Production year: 2006;
Genre: drama, war;
Age: 18+;
Duration: 127 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
More information about the film “The Wind That Shakes the Barley” on the website imdb.com
“In the Name of the Father”, 1993
Director: Jim Sheridan
This film, directed by Jim Sheridan, is based on the true story of the Guildford Four, who were wrongly convicted of bombings carried out by the Provisional IRA. It portrays the injustice faced by the Irish community in the UK and the fight for justice and freedom amidst political turmoil.
Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Pete Postlethwaite, Emma Thompson, John Lynch, Mark Sheppard, Beatie Edney, Frank Harper, Britta Smith, Corin Redgrave, Gerard McSorley, Alison Crosbie, Philip King, Anthony Brophy, Frankie McCafferty, Paul Warriner, Julian Walsh, Stuart Wolfenden, Jo Connor, Karen Carlisle, Seamus Moran, Billy Byrne, Maureen McBride, Jane Nolan, Laurence Griffin, Jason Murtagh, Kelly McKeavney, Joanna Irvine, Fiona Daly, Catherine Dunne, Anna Meegan, Marie Jones, Leah McCullagh, Saffron Burrows, Jamie Harris, Don Baker, Barbara Mulcahy, Mick Tohill, Peter Sheridan Sr., Joe McPartland, Stanley Townsend, Tim Perrin, Tony Denham, Rob Spendlove, Phil Davis, Martin Murphy, Richard Graham, Oliver Maguire, Maurice Kehoe, Rachael Dowling;
Production year: 1993;
Genre: drama, crime, biography;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 133 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
More information about the film “In the Name of the Father” on the website imdb.com
“The Rising of the Moon”, 1957
Director: John Ford
This anthology film directed by John Ford consists of three short stories set in Ireland, each depicting different aspects of Irish resistance and struggle for freedom. The film provides a nuanced portrayal of the Irish nationalist movement and its impact on individuals.
Starring: Tyrone Power, Noel Purcell, Cyril Cusack, Jack MacGowran, Jimmy O'Dea, Tony Quinn, Paul Farrell, Kevin Casey, Maureen Potter, May Craig, Michael Trubshawe, Maureen Connell, Michael O'Duffy, Denis O'Dea, Eileen Crowe, Frank Lawton, Donal Donnelly, Maureen Cusack, Edward Lexy, Maureen Delaney, Harold Goldblatt, Doreen Madden, Joseph O'Dea, Godfrey Quigley, Anita Sharp-Bolster, Dennis Brennan, John Cowley, Annie D'Alton, J.G. Devlin, Dennis Franks, Maurice Good, Eric Gorman, Joe Hone, John Horan, David Marlowe, Mafra McDonagh, Paddy O'Donnell, Martin Thornton;
Production year: 1957;
Genre: drama, comedy;
Duration: 81 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,6;
“Hunger”, 2009
Director: Steven Hentges
Directed by Steve McQueen, this film focuses on the 1981 Irish hunger strike led by IRA member Bobby Sands, played by Michael Fassbender. It delves into the physical and psychological toll of the hunger strike and the broader implications for the struggle for Irish freedom.
Starring: Lori Heuring, Linden Ashby, Joe Egender, Lea Kohl, Julian Rojas, Bjorn Johnson, Britten Partain, Laura Albyn, John Cooley, Ian Hopper, Kathy Shea, Kayden Sawyer, Yvonne Stancil, Gabe Kittle, David Nicholson;
Production year: 2009;
Genre: horror, action, thriller, crime;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 101 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,2;
More information about the film “Hunger” on the website imdb.com
These films offer a compelling exploration of the themes of Irish freedom, resistance, and the human cost of pursuing independence. Each film contributes to the rich tapestry of cinematic representations of Ireland's historical and ongoing quest for freedom.
The films about Irish freedom offer a powerful and poignant portrayal of the country's tumultuous history, highlighting the struggles and sacrifices made by its people in their fight for independence. From epic battles to intimate personal stories, these films capture the resilience, passion, and unwavering spirit of the Irish people. Through compelling storytelling, stunning visuals, and emotionally charged performances, these movies not only educate but also inspire audiences to reflect on the enduring quest for freedom and the indomitable human spirit. The selection of films about Irish freedom stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Irish struggle for independence, leaving a lasting impact on viewers and honoring the profound significance of this historic journey.
