Belfast

 

Belfast (Amazon Prime, Apple)

Belfast, a heartfelt beautiful story. Belfast is loosely based on  the autobiographical story of Kenneth Branagh, the writer and director of the film. The film starts in color showing present day Belfast with impressive architecture and public sculptures. To depict 1969 Belfast the film switches to black and white. This is an effective devise giving the movie the feel of a documentary. The cinematography is direct and wonderful for its clarity. 1969 is the start of the “Troubles”, sectarian violence between Protestants and Catholics. Before the Troubles there was harmonious coexistence. The tranquil neighborhood was a place where a mother’s call for her son is passed along street by street by cousins and neighbors.

The close knit family consists of Buddy the nine year old played by Jude Hill, Ma played by Caitriona Balfe, Pa played by Jamie Doran, Granny played by Judi Dench and Pop played by Ciaran Hinds. Jude is outstanding. His performance reminds me of the child star in JoJo Rabbit. So poised and natural. He brings humor to the bleakness of the period. He has the normal adventures of a nine year old from misguided petty larceny to blossoming puppy love with a Catholic girl. Jamie Doran gives a natural easy performance. This is probably his best work without bondage. Ma of course is the rock of the family. Pa works in England to support the family and returns on weekends. Financial burdens and peril weigh on her. However, she can still  dance and sing with her husband. Granny and Pop are the extended family. Ciaran  Hinds gives a touching performance offering Buddy sage advice about girls and long division. Judi Dench has a modest but essential role.

This movie is uplifting. Family and a bit of humor are a potent mix.