Involving story but a little long

Rating: 6/10 (22 September 2008)

Well-told tale of the beginnings of the Irish unitedly uprising against the British and the political differences that eventually caused the Irish to turn against each other.
The approach was realistic and no-nonsense and without the employ of over-drama, sentimentality or other bells and whistles that would have pushed it to the epic proportions of Braveheart. I found it to be very convincing (although Braveheart was by far more gripping and entertaining) and cannot see why it has caused a spate of reviews accusing it of being propaganda.
I knocked away a couple of points simply because it dragged on for long enough for me to wish it would end, and with a stark lack of humour or moving soundtrack, I became bored with the drab wardrobe and visuals which I feel would have been sufficient for a shorter movie where it's easier to focus on the story. However, in fairness, it was a very well-made movie if you're in the mood for a seriously heavy, political drama and have the time on your hands.