In the Name of the Father

Rating:
Summary: In the Name of Daniel Day Lewis
Review: Daniel Day-Lewis, in another brilliant, Oscar-nominated performance. In the Name of the Father is a gritty, gut wrenching drama by the talented Irish film maker Jim Sheridan. Daniel Day-Lewis proves why he is so respected and revered as an actor. Though his role as Gerard Conlon received less press than his turn as Christy Brown in My Left Foot, or Bill the Butcher, in Gangs of New York, he bristles with intensity as the troubled Conlon. Day-Lewis proves why he is one of the finest actors of his generation. A true method actor, Day-Lewis is said to have gone through interrogations from police to lend true authenticity to the role. He has a rare and unequaled fire in his eyes that made me an immediate fan.I could simply not take my eyes off of him. He is not just another pretty face...although, what a face...he is without a doubt a very gifted actor.
Day-Lewis and Pete Postlethwaite are just riviting on screen together. Their portrayl of father and son sings and stings with realism and sincerity.
This film has somehow gone largely unnoticed, however, it is a must see for those of you who enjoy a dose of reality with your drama.
Based on the book of the same name, written by Gerard Conlon himself, the movie does not cast a favorable light on the British Judicial system and their need to place blame on someone, despite their innocence. Your heart will break as you watch Guisseppe and Gerard fight for their case to be heard.
The movie, while placing focus on Day-Lewis's character, is an excellent forum for the wonderful character actor that Postlethwaite is. Their moments together are powerful and passionate. To find a better suited pair for father and son, one would indeed be hard pressed.
This film does exactly what it intended to do. 1. It creates and maintains a realistic relationship between father and son. Gerard's reaction when his father is imprisioned with him is a classic.
2. It is engaging. From begining to end this film will keep even the most hard-core action enthusiast engaged in the story.
3. It is honest. It does not sugar coat the facts as recalled by Conlon and it does not pretend to give a balanced view of events. Instead, it boldly makes a statement about profiling and what can happen when parinoia strikes those who are supposed to be objective and seek truth.
This film is a triumph.