Review of Michael Collins (1996) by Jen M — 11 Jan 2010

A dreary and saddening story may be an understatement for Michael Collins. While based on true events in the early 1900's between England and Ireland's IRA. It is revolves around the life of a true leader for the people who was often referred by them as The Lord of War. It was interesting film yet somewhat hard to watch. There is romance, friendship, and quite a bit of killing for your country throughout but all around it is a drama at heart.

After a defeat by the British in 1916 Michael Collins and his companion IRA leaders try a new Strategy. They take it to their own country men called G-Men who have sided with the British and are informants. One by one he takes them out for the damage they have done to the cause. This in turn brings the British government to its knees and they decide for a treaty which may turn out to be a bad decision for all.

It felt a little slow at times and seemed to drag along with no direction but I couldn't stop watching. I even felt lost at times with the very thick Irish accents. I was dumbfounded by how hard it is to understand the language I speak. This would have turned me off if it wasn't for the writer and Director Neil Jordan. He did a wonderful job keeping it consistently gloomy both in weather and acting. I almost got the impression he made the fog and rain some how himself. Even if this sounds negative it really isn't the camera work and acting felt consistently strong throughout. He did an excellent job holding everything together and getting me to like something I may otherwise may not have.

Strong acting by the cast was one of best parts of this film. Lian Neeson was terrific. He was so believable I almost I forgot this was a movie. Julia Roberts on the other hand was only OK. She didn't have a huge part but she was steady and convincing. Alan Rickman had an excellent character as an ex-IRA leader and then the Irish president who turns out to be more of a bad guy than a good one. I have not seen much of him except of Harry potter and the recent piece of crap I watched Nobel Son but I am starting to really like him. Aidan Quinn who I have never heard of which was surprising after looking at his Filmography was also quite intense. While looking around I noticed that it was nominated for an Oscar for best original score which was weird because I barely notice the music it was so seamless also for Best Cinematography which it could have won but there was some tough competition.

Overall this was an interesting film about a real man and what he did for his country. After watching I felt a little like I watched a really good documentary which is cool for me because I enjoy history but not everyone does. If you like films of this type you should check it out I'm glad I did.

4 wins 8 nominations Nominated for 2 Oscars.