Review of The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006) by Reid V — 19 Dec 2011
This film tackles head on the all-consuming power of an idea and the evolving nature of that idea in the face of reality. Like other films about the liberation movement in Northern Ireland such as Paul Greengrass' Bloody Sunday or Steve McQueen's Hunger, it is brutal, difficult to watch, and enraging.
However, even in the face of these atrocities committed by the British, Loach shows that this isn't the timeless battle of good vs. evil, but rather one group of humans subjugating another. The monsters are in many ways innocent themselves and the oppressed are capable of the same barbarism showcased by their oppressors.
It is an important film and one that is exceptionally well made.
This review of The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006) was written by Reid V on 19 Dec 2011.
The Wind That Shakes the Barley has generally received very positive reviews.
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