A good view on the Irish problem

Rating: Null/10 (17 May 2004)

The screenplay for "In the name of the Father" is based on the memoirs of a Belfast young boy who, along with friends and family members, was wrongly convicted by the British government in 1975 for the terrorist bombing of two pubs in Guildford, a town outside London.Imprisoned for fifteen years, the "Guildford Four" (they were called like that) finally won their freedom in a ruling that sparked controversy and shook the British legal system.
"In the name of the Father" tells a really moving story which will not probably remain indifferent to the viewers. In fact, all my impressions about the film were very good, both for the performances and for the interesting contents. Jim Sheridan, the director, knew how to turn his ideas into reality in a masterly way.
I think, as a spectator, that this true story of terrible injustice provided a compelling basis for a moving drama: the problem in Ireland, family values or real facts made by the authorities en the 70s give a touch of reality that is felt throughout the whole film. In addition to this, in constructing his parable of good and evil, Sheridan was also inspired to explore some patriarchal concepts, including the British crown's involvement in United Kingdom. On the other hand, I also observed a certain allegory of a father and son in conflict which, actually, provides the most important argument in the film. In fact, a combination of values related to religion is a constant feature throughout the film.
In conclusion, I believe that "In the name of the Father" has been one of the best films I have ever seen so I recommend it to anyone interested in social problems. A story about violence and love, about justice and injustice, all combinated in order to explain the crude reality about a harsh conflict which, even nowadays, goes on affecting thousands of people in a similar way of Gerry Conlon. And, obviously,for the Spanish people the film will mean a revival of a problem that affects us directly. So, come on, see it because it is worthy and it will help you to understand (or unless to try to look for an explanation) many life matters!