Belfast

       

     Written and directed by Kenneth Branagh, based on his own childhood, "Belfast" is a wonderful coming of age film. Set in 1969, the film juxtaposes young Buddy's innocent childhood against the start of the "Troubles", a turbulent time in Northern Ireland pitting Catholics against Protestants.

      Buddy, played by Jude Hill (a sensational first-time performance) is surrounded by a loving family and friends. His parents are played by Caitriona Balfe and Jamie Dornan. His grandparents by Judi Dench and Ciaran Hinds. Colin Morgan completes the family as Buddy's brother Billy. It's a perfectly cast film with outstanding acting from the entire ensemble. 

      After a brief contemporary opening, the film flashes back to 1969 and switches to black and white for the majority of the story. The cinematography is stunning and Oscar worthy. The soundtrack is filled with wonderful Van Morrison classics. Mr. Branagh's direction conveys his memories of innocent times, filled with love and yet he keeps us on edge as the dangerous times lurk at the edges of every scene. 

       In this season of two hour plus mega films, Mr. Branagh brings this terrific story to life in under two hours without wasting a frame. You don't have to be Irish to appreciate its universal themes.  Oscar nominations loom large in multiple categories.