Michael Collins (1996)

Liam Neeson gives one of his finest performances as the titular Irish freedom fighter and politician, who was a leading figure in the early struggle for Irish independence in Neil Jordan’s engaging and superior part-biopic. Recently credited with being more true to life than it was on initial release, it’s a very interesting piece of work, and Jordan’s slightly sympathetic portrayal of Collins doesn’t always persuade the viewer of his decisions, but certainly holds your attention, and for many (certainly in England) it will be a history lesson into a period that far too many know nothing about. The film captures the look and feel of Dublin in the early part of the twentieth century extremely well, and gives the piece a hugely authentic viewing experience which Jordan capitalises on to direct Neeson and co with aplomb, and his end product argues that had Collins been successful in his end goals, Ireland might well have been united. On that front of course we’ll never know, but Jordan’s terrific film gives you plenty to ponder, whether you know the story or not. 7.7/10