Review of '71 (2014) by Oscar R — 23 Apr 2015

During the 1960's through the 1990's, an ethno-nationalist conflict known as, the Troubles, took place in Northern Ireland. Many of Ireland's residents there consider it to be a war. This film deals directly with this conflict. "'71" is directed by Yann Demange and stars Jack O'Connell, Richard Dormer, Sean Harris, Sam Reid, Charlie Murphy, Paul Anderson, and Paul Popplewell.

Th film follows a young inexperienced British soldier, named Gary Hook (O'Connell). He finds himself in a extremely dangerous situation, when he gets trapped behind enemy lines. As he seeks shelter, several IRA members attempt to hunt him down. Chased all over the city, Gary must find shelter, before he gets himself killed.

First of all, there isn't too much dialogue in this film. It's very quiet at times. However, Jack O'Connell's performance is outstanding. His performance is incredibly intense. As a character, he isn't too deep or well written. However, he doesn't need to be. Basically, he is a witness into the horror of the the Troubles during 1971. It was a brutal conflict, and this character is the audiences eyes into this horrific event.

Yann Demange does a fantastic job in the directors chair. The movie is directed with precision and intensity. The film was shot by cinematographer Tat Radcliffe-who is unknown to me-and his camera work here is astounding. Weather it be beautiful steady shots, or intense handheld shots, the cinematography is absolutely beautiful. It really added to the tension of this film having the handheld cam. During street chases and riot scenes, the hand held cam works very well.

71-movie.

This is a very thrilling film. It is also a very violent one. As far as the action goes, it was incredible. It doesn't glorify the Troubles-as it could easily have done so-but rather it shows how horrible the conflict was. There is allot of tension throughout the entire movie. While watching it you feel like your actually there. You fear for the main character and you feel his paranoia. There is a constant feeling of growing tension and fear, and it works perfectly. The action is brutal, not to mention tragic. It isn't entertaining. I don't want to give it that impression. It just really well made. Perhaps "action" isn't the correct word to use.

"72" is a brutal, tension filled, and well made film. It takes it's subject matter very seriously, never glorifying the real life events. The central performance from O'Connell is superb, the cinematography is stunning, and it's a gripping film from start to finish. One of the best films so far of 2015.