The
Wind that Shakes the Barley
By
Caroline Planque
Posted
April 18,
2007
Set against the backdrop of the 1920s'
Ireland fight for independence, The Wind that Shakes the
Barley exposes the involvement and commitment of young
Irishmen and women to draw the British troops out of their
country by any means necessary.
In his historical feature, which won the Palme d’Or at Cannes
last year, Ken Loach keeps a respectable distance from his
characters, emphasizing political context over individual
character development. The film centers around two brothers,
Damian and Paddy, who initially fight together against the
British but suddenly find themselves in opposite camps
following the signature of the 1921 Anglo-Irish Treaty. The
treaty created an Irish Free State with dominion status within
the British Commonwealth. The loyalty to their ideals makes them
enemies in their hearts. Hardened by months and months of
guerilla fighting, the brothers attempt to reach out to each
other in a tragic outcome.
Even as
Damian faces the ultimate sacrifice
neither man feels he can betray the
cause he believes in.
Opens at the
Varsity Theatre on April 20
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2006 All content property of European Weekly unless where otherwise
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