Written and directed by Sir Kenneth Branagh, Belfast is a semi-autobiographical look at the writer’s experience of the Troubles in the sixties. The film offers the audience a unique perspective of the time through the eyes of Buddy – played by newcomer Jude Hill.
Buddy is a nine-year-old boy whose life begins to alter as those around him are ensnared in the conflict of the Troubles in his hometown of Belfast – with his family having to choose whether to remain in their home or leave for a new life elsewhere.
The film does not shy away from displaying the violence that Buddy experiences first-hand, capturing the action of the riots within the first few minutes of viewing. The beginning sequence demonstrates a stark contrast between life for Buddy before and after this conflict starts.
That is not to say that Branagh has created a bleak viewing experience; the child’s perspective and often witty dialogue opens the audience up to the joys of daily life as a young boy in Belfast at this time, despite the problems happening directly around Buddy and his family.
Whilst the film centres around the conflict, it also focuses heavily on family life. For example, we see Buddy’s parents – played by Jamie Dornan and Catriona Balfe – his school life, and his heart-warming relationship with his grandparents.
I would have liked to have received more context of the conflict and its origins within the film. How the fighting affects family life is touched on, with the political backdrop of the conflict arguably ignored in this more sentimental, family-orientated retelling of life during the Troubles.
The remarkable acting and writing in this film bring the family to life.
Jude Hill is exceptional in his first professional acting role as Buddy. With his understanding of how to perform the nuances of his character, he demonstrates a brilliant talent at a very young age.
The portrayal of his close relationship with his grandparents, played by the amazing Judi Dench and Ciarán Hinds, is particularly touching.
The film is shown mainly in black and white, but this does not draw away from the viewing experience. There are also some creative bursts of colour through the film that give it a real sense of joy.
Overall, Belfast offers an uplifting view of how familial and romantic love can get you through the toughest of times, with the brilliant acting making it an easy watch despite the deeply emotional plot.
Edited by Jemma Snowdon
Commenti