Top Five Irish Films

from Ben's mom

Last night while watching what we initially thought was an Irish film (Dear Frankie) but is actually Scottish, my husband asked what my top ten Irish films were. I've narrowed it to 5. I've intentionally included Northern Irish films, but have not included movies that while made in Ireland, don't seem uniquely Irish. (e.g. My Left Foot--a well-done story but one that could have happened anywhere)

Here they are:

5) In the Name of the Father The true story of Gerry Conlon, falsely convicted of involvement in an IRA bombing.
4) Some Mother's Son This story of two mothers whose sons go on hunger strike during the prison hunger strikes of 1981. This film wrenchingly captures the love of mothers and shows the choices they must make as they deal with the decisions of their adult sons.
3) Michael Collins The true story of Michael Collins, this movie was beautifully shot capturing early 20th century Ireland and featuring a fantastic cast, particularly Liam Neeson as his boyhood hero Mick Collins and Aidan Quinn.
2) The Secret of Roan Inish My one non-political choice, this film captures the heart of Irish strength and the hope that has driven the Irish people to succeed despite overwhelming odds. The soundtrack and scenery are both amazing.
1) This is the Sea Difficult to follow and haunting, this picture captures the undercurrent of the modern Irish conflict and its lack of moral foundation like no other. I've watched it 4 times and I still haven't figured it all out.

Could have been:

The Boxer This film captures much of the moral bankrupty of the modern IRA and its complexities. Unfortunately, an impossible love story prevents it from being all it could have been.

Honorable Mention:

The Devil's Own This film is largely set in New York, but it certainly portrays a lot of understanding about the Conflict and the web of intricacy that frames the modern problem. Brad Pitt does an excellent Irish accent and the movie hinges on the last words: This isn't an American story, it's an Irish one.