Review: Belfast

I have never been to any part of Ireland. But it is always been an island that I've wanted to see and experience at least once.

Seeing the opening scene already gives you an idea of the culture and vibe of the place as well as the characters you are about to be with for the next hour and a half.

I was really intrigued to see this as this looked to be a bit of a passion project for director Kenneth Branagh, who is partly portraying events of his childhood. With a strong cast involved, I felt this had potential to be a memorable watch.

I was aware of the infamous incidents that the film is portraying in its chosen time period. So I did feel emotionally prepared. However, I wasn't expecting the more happier and joyful moments to be so integral with the story. Whilst the tension and horror gradually rises around them, the spirit of the community we see as well as the cultural nods that it is using paints a great picture of that time period.

With the added atmospheric Van Morrison soundtrack and the stylish cinematography by Haris Zambarloukos, the entire production design was tip-top and a huge standout.

The story does have to go down expected routes in order to show the audience the troubles of the time. But with the added family situation, there was enough freshness to the plot that gives you something you weren't sure how it would end.

The cast all do a grand job. Child actor Jude Hill was a wonderful lead. He is sharp, witty and has the right amount of innocence and heart that makes this film work so well. An absolute star in the making and deserves all the plaudits he receives.

The support from Caitriona Balfe and Jamie Dornan gives the film the necessary emotional weight. You can feel how important the film is for them as it is probably what their grandparents experienced and they gave their performances justice.

Giving the film its wisdom is Judi Dench and Ciaran Hinds and they definitely have their memorable moments of contribution.

I really enjoyed this one. You instantly love the 60's community vibe and naturally get invested with likable characters. That early investment makes everything else that happens afterward very effective. With the addition of the general look being pretty eye-catching, I had a very pleasing viewing experience.

This will work for a mass audience. Films that have a grounded working-class environment usually fair well. This is a real labour of love for Brannagh and I feel many demographics with get attached to that passion and heart that is coming out of this story. I can also see this getting better on multiple viewings as there are plenty of small details all over the screen you could easily miss the first time round.

Rating: 8/10