Belfast

 

With 8 nominations and winning 1 Oscar for best screenplay it’s a beautiful movie to watch. A B/W movie amongst all the special effect driven movies is a special treat. The film is shot in a fashion that you feel the characters come alive as if they are performing right in front of you (See the interview where the director explains that was one of the technique used so that the viewer feels he is in the midst of the movie)

The world as seen by 9 year old Buddy (Jude Hill) who is growing up in an area of conflict. Just like in India we have India - Muslim violence, Norther Ireland had sectarian violence between catholics and protestants who till then had lived peacefully. Historically known as the Troubles phase, it lasted for 30 years starting in 60’s. Buddy is a child staying in this conflicted area along with his parents who are contemplating shifting to the UK due to increasing violence and better prospects. Will they ?

The beauty of the movie lies in the innocence of Buddy and his questions on how do we differentiate between Catholics & Protestants or getting unknowingly involved in being part of a mob who robs a supermarket or his conversations with his grandma & grandpa - Jude Hill is the star, the movie is told through him and his body language his expressions, dialogues. While he didn’t win any awards or got nominated for an Oscar - Am happy that he was nominated and won multiple awards including Critique’s Choice movies Award. 

Growing up always has a special place in your life - I was reminded of Jo Jo Rabbit. That is the time when your innocence shines through and there is a feeling of wonder and amazement in your eyes and mind. You want to still believe that the world is a lovely place to be in and anything can happen. As we grow we step out of your home and touch the reality, but the point at which we feel it is a life changing moment and it all depends when the same will hit you  - Like in this movie, Buddy’s brush with reality comes much faster because of the environment he is living in. 

A lovely movie which takes you back to your childhood and innocent years.

Day 27: 200 words/day challenge (384 words)

Fun Fact: The director Kenneth Branagh plays the Professor Gildroy Lockheart in Harry Potter & Chamber of Secrets.   

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mo4iSE834FY (Director Interview)