Format: Initially a TV film, had a limited cinema release
Historical Context: Depicts the events of January 30, 1972, where British soldiers shot and killed 13 civilians in Northern Ireland. This day is known as Bloody Sunday.
Controversy: Highly controversial due to the involvement of British military forces shooting their own citizens.
Key Discussion Points
Historical Background
Event: Bloody Sunday, January 30, 1972
British soldiers from the Parachute Regiment shot dead 13 civilians during a peaceful civil rights march in Derry/Londonderry.
A 14th victim died later from injuries.
Boosted IRA ranks and intensified the Northern Ireland conflict, known as "The Troubles."
Political Impact:
The event prolonged the conflict in Northern Ireland for at least another decade.
Led to several pivotal moments in the Troubles and eventually the peace process culminating in the Good Friday Agreement of 1998.
Film Details
Main Star: James Nesbit as Ivan Cooper
Budget: £2 million; Box office: £0.5 million
Filming Style: Shot in a desaturated look, not full black-and-white; Documentary-style realism
Awards: Won Audience Award at Sundance Film Festival and Golden Bear at Berlin Film Festival.
Controversy and Accuracy: The film was made during the Bloody Sunday Inquiry, pre-dating the inquiry's findings.
Key Characters and Performances
Ivan Cooper (James Nesbit): Leader of the civil rights march, member of the SDLP, Protestant advocating peaceful means.
Colonel Derek Wilford (Simon Mann): Commanding officer of the Parachute Regiment, depicted as a controversial figure.
General Ford (Tim Piggot Smith) and Brigadier MacLellan (Nicholas Farrell): Senior army figures with differing views on handling the march.
Discussion Themes
Military Actions:
The choice of using the aggressive Parachute Regiment was seen as a major error.
The Widgery Report initially absolved soldiers of blame, later overturned by the Saville Inquiry leading to a formal apology by the UK government.
Film Style:
Documentary-style, capturing realism with shaky camera work and non-linear narrative.
Comparison with Greengrass’s other films like United 93 and Captain Phillips.
Awards and Recognition
Best Performance: James Nesbit awarded for his compelling portrayal of Ivan Cooper.
Best Scene: The shooting scene, despite being difficult to watch, is pivotal.
Realism: Highly commended for its realistic portrayal of events.
Legacy
Regarded as a significant film for its portrayal of Bloody Sunday.
Suggested as a must-watch for those interested in Northern Ireland's history.
Despite its limited release, it remains a crucial part of cinema discussing historical events.
Conclusion
The film remains a powerful and important portrayal of a pivotal event in Northern Ireland's history.
Strong recommendation to view as it offers deep insights into the events and aftermath of Bloody Sunday.
Upcoming Episodes
Next Saturday: Interview with Peter Taylor on the Troubles.