Movies

SYNOPSIS

1971, and the conflict in Northern Ireland is escalating towards civil war. Young English recruit Gary is called into action in Belfast. The situation in the city is confusing and challenging – even for experienced military commanders. The town is divided into ‘loyal’ Protestant and ‘hostile’ Catholic areas. Both parties have paramilitary units; in addition, radical street gangs and undercover agents from all sides are trying to assert their interests on their own initiative. During a patrol, the soldiers become embroiled in a scuffle and one of them loses their weapon. Gary and a fellow soldier follow the thief who disappears into the crowd. Suddenly Gary is having to fend for himself alone in the midst of enemy territory. His journey back to his base that night is an odyssey filled with uncertainty, fear and desperation.

Yann Demange

Born in Paris, France, in 1977, he grew up in London and began his career filming live concerts and working on promos for international musicians. His first film Joe screened at the British Council Festival. He then made further shorts Incomplete, Alan and Samir and Headspace. After studying at the National Film and Television School, he made Man In Box in 2006 for Channel 4. His five-part series Dead Set was nominated for the BAFTA for Best Series in 2010 and Top Boy for Best Director in 2013. ‘71 is his debut feature film.

Filmography

2014 - ‘71

Festivals
2014 - Berlin, Athens

Awards
2014 - Berlin International Film Festival - Prize of the Ecumenical Jury - Special Mention; Athens- Best Picture; London (British Independent Film Festival) - Best Director, Best British Independent Film, Best Screenplay, Best Actor (Jack O'Connell)

Critique

Yann Demange's brilliant debut feature is an honourable companion piece to Carol Reed's 1947 classic, Odd Man Out.
Geoffrey Macnab, Independent