Silent Grace

I watched Silent Grace recently after watching Hunger. I was amazed at how unknown the women's involvement in these protests were. I think Orla Brady gives a magnificent performance and the rest of the cast are also strong. The tension between Eileen and the prison governor Cunningham, was particularly interesting. A repressed sexual tension along with a mutual disdain, which gives way to a form of respect when Cunningham becomes involved in saving Eileens life is interesting. It seems that director Murphy is reaching for resolutions and is reaching to the common humanity beneath the stark and polarised prejudiced positions. Cathleen Bradley gives a spirited performance, and this the film needs. With The Clash "I fought the Law" in the background, it is a reminder that the energy of youth could either go towards paramilitary or criminal activity. But these women were forgotten, their story untold. Well done to Maeve Murphy for telling it and in a such a touching and dignified way. This film deserves to be seen more widely.