Realistic Film making, and an accurate depiction.

Rating: 10/10 (2 October 2007)

The Wind That Shakes the Barley is historically accurate, and sums up the the Irish War of Independence in a way that I believe could not be achieved again.
The story follows Damien (Cillian Murphy), an Irishman who has his sights set on leaving the country and beginning a long career in medicine. His dream however turns astray when he decides to stay and fight the horrible injustice that British are inflicting on their country. Damien along with his brother and the rest of the IRA, begin their long, and very argues battle against the British Empire. They however are always fighting a losing battle, and with the edge of inevitability always looming above them, their battle is all the more powerful.
I've read reviews with people saying that the depiction of the British Soldiers was overblown and contrived. This I cannot argue or defend, but rather I can say that regardless of how severe they were, the injustice that was inflicted upon Ireland did happen, and is a part of history. Therefore not knowing any more, I simply believed what was put before and I chose to trust Ken Loach's depiction of the horrific events. Doing this I found I not only gained a much greater understanding and respect for those involved, but it also enhanced the impact that the film delivered. Moments of this film are crafted and put together wonderfully. It's not fake and Hollywood, this is history film making at it's finest. This film does not glorify the IRA but rather shows the brave and courageous men and woman who were alive during this time, it shows heart wrenching decisions with realism, it accentuates the human mind and it's ability too understand the difference of right from wrong, and ultimately this film demands an answer too why and how such an event occurred.
The Wind That Shakes the Barley is not easy to watch, some scenes in particular I imagine will make some turn away. However as I said it's real and it's history and as of such The Wind That Shakes the Barley deserves all the credit that it receives and merits watching for any who wish to enjoy a powerful and moving movie experience.