Set in Belfast in the war shaken ground of Northern Ireland, '’71' tells the story of a behind-enemy-lines thriller as Gary (Jack O’Connell) must survive the determined IRA in rioting Belfast whilst dodging the threat of death from within his own ranks.
When a routine inspection goes wrong, a crisis situation erupts and the city starts to riot. During the melee, Gary is left behind by his unit and must now fight, evade and ultimately put his trust into his enemy to survive. Upon escaping and entering what he believes to be a safe house, Gary witnesses his superior officers planning and designing bombs to attack with, thus making him a marked man on both sides.
With his baby-faced commanding officer Lt Armitage (Sam Reid) at a loss for any superiority over his ruthless and steel faced Captain (Sean Harris), the hope for Gary to be saved by his regiment seems a certain impossibility. Gary must put his trust in former army doctor Eamon (Richard Dormer); a republican. Setting aside his differences and having faith in his newfound ally might prove to be the one chance that Gary has to survive the night.The first feature length film for director Yann Demange hits honest and hard as a nail biting action-thriller with an undercurrent of political conspiracy and a look into the hierarchy of government, army and the police force. The dedication to theme, costume and design are flawless, offering a look into the underworld of Northern Ireland during the war.
Only minor points of humour are used then quickly washed away with sets of pouring rain or a wash of overcast greys. The essence of Demange’s work shows glimpses Jim Sheridan’s 'In The Name Of The Father' and Steve McQueen’s 'Hunger'.While the drama of plot is effortlessly suspenseful and uses a clever blend of action and pace – a most notable highlight from the culmination of Demange and screenwriter Gregory Burke – '’71' delves deeply into the harsh realities of war. The corruption within the ranks of officials and soldiers; the depth of cynicism and pensive exhaustion of its veterans; and the power of propaganda used upon the young to be soldiered off as meat for each parties’ 'greater good' is all a familiar honesty that the audience is forced to face.
The ending of the film rounds out very well, however it does leave a dire bitterness in the mouth. I believe it is best summed up by Eamon’s advice to the injured Greg when he explains, in as many words that “in war, fat people convince dumb people to kill poor people.” Ain’t that the truth.
5/5
''71' is in cinemas now.
– written by Adam Styles
