Michael Collins

After having lived in Ireland for a number of years, I was not completely unfamiliar with the history of the Irish Civil War, and the years leading up to it. I knew about Michael Collins, about Eamon de Valera, and had a fair grasp of what happened.

I am always a bit apprehensive when viewing a movie based on real events; especially if its subject matter is something as sensitive as war. You never quite know who might get offended, or how the retelling of classic events might influence people to believe certain things happened, when in fact they did not.

That all said, I was rather impressed with how Jordan handled this. Based on whatever little knowledge I have, I thought he told it well, and handled the characters carefully and with the respect they deserve.

The battle scenes are poweful, and the grainy blue tint helps capture the hopelessness of war, and goes in stark contrast with the sweeping shots of the stunning Irish scenery.

I’m sure people better versed in Irish history can point out several historical inaccuracies, but even when you take all the politics out of the movie, it’s still an engaging drama with a lot of excellent performances, especially from Liam Neeson and Alan Rickman.

Sure, complaints can also be made about Julia Roberts’s role (and accent), but let’s not be petty. Overall, I really enjoyed this engaging and well-made movie.