In one of the documentary's news broadcasts, they show a family funeral with three coffins being borne along in the procession. The amazing thing about McShane and Regan's skills as film makers is how they were able to capture the delicate balance between both sides. If they had a bias, it was not apparent. What was apparent, was that some of the people traditionally looked upon for guidance, both politically and religiously, have desperately failed their followers. The Reverand Dennis Faul, a Catholic priest from Belfast, cannot contain his anger.
Real life means they learn to hate the opposition like everyone else.
There are two traditions and they are not going to change. Despite the intolerance of leaders on both sides, the school's Christmas pageant comes across as a refreshing psychological triumph. From anger and pain, the film moves to compassion and love. We watch the little children all dressed as trees. What a beautiful sight to view the audience from the back of the stage.