In the Name of the Father

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Jay W @RT52162311 May 17 Between this film and "The Crucible", Daniel Day-Lewis does not know when to make a false confession for a crime. The story takes place in Ireland where a series of violent bombings are taking place. Ireland then gets their own version of the Patriot Act and are allowed to hold suspects for a week without cause. They torture Day-Lewis and his friends until they confess. To add to the problem, Daniel's father is implicated and likewise arrested. This movie really got under my skin. The cops who do this, one of which named Dixon, are portrayed as the least likable people I have ever seen. Just the most despicable, irredeemable monsters of all time. I can't help but hope that these guys end up on The Punisher's hit list. I won't go into details, but the ending is anti-climactic and leaves me feeling empty inside. Not just flat, but also kind of stupid. So, the movie did its job. It made an emotional connection. Problem is that emotion is anger. See more Jenny L @RT92578959 May 5 It has been more than 30 years since I first saw this groundbreaking movie in the theatre. I was 17 back then and I still remember the extent to which it affected me. Although I don’t want to spoil the plot I will say that it formed my opinion on the death penalty and the legal system (in Britain and beyond obviously). Based on a true story, the performances by the entire cast, whose peak is undoubtedly the one by Daniel Day-Lewis, make this film an underrated classic. In my opinion, Day-Lewis deserved an Oscar. This movie came out the same year as Philadelphia so I do understand (to an extent) why that one won most categories but it is also the reason why I feel critics have not done justice to this film. To me, it is one of the most brilliant movies ever made, always on my top 5, and it will never fail to move me. I should also say that I have watched it over 20 times in these 30 years and not once have the performances felt rehearsed. It is an absolute must see. See more Bernadette B. @Berny Mar 6 Loved this movie, and am still recommending it. See more Christopher F. @Moviefreak90 Nov 16 A standard script elevated by a cadre of powerful Performances See more Rohan H @RT05543391 Oct 31 In the Name of the Father (1993) is a profoundly moving and unforgettable film that combines gripping courtroom drama with deep emotional storytelling. Directed by Jim Sheridan and based on a true story, it follows one man’s wrongful imprisonment and his fight — alongside his father — to reclaim freedom and truth. The result is a film that is both heartbreaking and inspiring, driven by extraordinary performances and a powerful message about justice and humanity. Daniel Day-Lewis delivers a remarkable, career-defining performance as Gerry Conlon, a young man from Belfast wrongly accused of participating in the 1974 Guildford pub bombings. Initially rebellious and aimless, Gerry’s transformation over the course of the film — from a confused young man to a determined fighter for truth — is breathtaking to watch. Day-Lewis brings raw intensity and emotional honesty to every scene, making Gerry’s suffering and growth feel profoundly real. Pete Postlethwaite is equally outstanding as Giuseppe Conlon, Gerry’s gentle, principled father. His quiet dignity and unconditional love provide the emotional core of the film, creating a deeply moving father-son relationship that transcends the walls of their prison cell. Their bond — tested by injustice and strengthened by love — gives the story its humanity and heart. Emma Thompson shines as Gareth Peirce, the dedicated lawyer who takes up Gerry’s case, adding intelligence and quiet determination to the film’s pursuit of justice. The supporting cast, direction, and script all work together seamlessly to create an atmosphere of both political outrage and deep compassion. Jim Sheridan’s direction is powerful yet restrained. He captures the bleakness of prison life and the brutality of institutional injustice without ever losing focus on the characters’ emotional journeys. The pacing is deliberate, the cinematography stark and evocative, and the soundtrack — including U2’s haunting title track — enhances the film’s emotional depth. What makes In the Name of the Father unforgettable is its humanity. It’s not just a story about corruption or a miscarriage of justice — it’s about the endurance of love, the strength of family, and the unbreakable spirit of those who refuse to give up. The film reminds us that even in the darkest moments, truth and compassion can prevail. See more Anna W @RT55252430 08/20/2025 This is one of my favourite films. I've seen it about 5 times and each time I watch it, it is always as harrowing and gripping as the first time. Daniel Day Lewis, Pete Postlethwaite and Emma Thompson are truly outstanding and I'm always surprised at the fact they didn't get Oscars for their performances. The song by Sinéad O'Connor for the soundtrack is also perfect. See more Read all reviews

In the Name of the Father

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