As the anticipation builds for Thomas Shelby’s return in the upcoming “Peaky Blinders” movie, let’s take a nostalgic look at one of Cillian Murphy’s standout films. While “Oppenheimer” and “Dunkirk” have also showcased his talent, 2006’s “The Wind That Shakes the Barley” deserves the spotlight. Cillian Murphy, after his role in “Batman Begins,” delivered one of his most powerful performances as Damien O’Donovan, an aspiring doctor in County Cork whose dream of studying medicine in London shatters upon witnessing the harsh realities of British occupation. Although it might be a stretch to label “The Wind That Shakes the Barley” as “underrated” given its critical acclaim — it took home the prestigious Palme d’Or at Cannes — nearly two decades have passed since its release, and many may have overlooked it in light of Murphy’s more recent successes.

Výnimočný film, ktorý si zaslúži pozornosť

Set during the tumultuous early 1920s, “The Wind That Shakes the Barley” delves into the Irish War of Independence and its aftermath. Featuring talented actors like Liam Cunningham and Roger Allam, the film is a masterful depiction of a period filled with struggle. Director Ken Loach and writer Paul Laverty expertly portray the pervasive sense of dread that permeates the narrative. The tension is palpable from the outset; a brutal murder of one of Damien’s friends by British patrol underscores the film’s harsh realities.

Rozdelené rodiny a tragédia vojny

The film poignantly explores themes of family and the devastating impact of war. It transcends simply the Irish fight against British rule; it reveals the heartbreak of familial ties torn apart by conflict, with characters often finding themselves on opposing sides. This film is a must-watch for any Cillian Murphy enthusiast, showcasing the range of his acting skills from raw fury to deeply felt vulnerability. It serves as a harbinger of the cinematic brilliance that was to come from him. “The Wind That Shakes the Barley” is currently available to stream for free on Plex (with ads).