Belfast film review

How does political and civil unrest impact the everyday life of a nine-year-old? Kenneth Branagh’s Belfast answers this difficult question through the eyes of Buddy, a young, movie-loving Belfast native during the beginning of The Troubles.

The Troubles were a period of turmoil between Catholic nationalists (supporting Irish independence from Britain) and Protestant loyalists (supporting Northern Ireland’s annexation) which resulted in around three decades of violence and strife for the citizens of Northern Ireland. Homes were bombed. People attacked in the street. Innocents lost their lives. How can someone navigate their life in such circumstances, let alone a child?

The highlight performances of the film are Jude Hill as Buddy, Ciarán Hinds as Pop, and Dame Judi Dench as Granny. Hill is a natural young actor, while Hinds and Dench provide banter and pearls of wisdom. For film enthusiasts, the dynamic between Buddy and Pop will be reminiscent of Toto and Alfredo of Cinema Paradiso, while Dame Judi Dench provides a quiet, yet powerful performance as the doting grandmother. Fans of Alfonso Cuaron’s Roma will appreciate the black and white cinematography.

Hopefully, Belfast will continue to receive its well-deserved accolades.

Should you watch it?

This heavily nominated movie is an easy watch for anyone. The film is perfect for families, film, and history buffs. The choice of black and white may not be for everyone, but the storytelling and acting should more than makeup for the lack of usual color.