MovieChat Forums > The Gentle Gunman (1953) Discussion > Irish Terrorism 1940s, Foreshadowing the...

Irish Terrorism 1940s, Foreshadowing the 2015 Phenomena

posted 8 years ago by Ranger-style_Sloane80
3 replies | jump to latest

Very dramatic & intense opening with the bomb in the London Underground. The scene where the bomber Matt (Bogarde) gets detained by the police & then is released, gains new relevance in light of the recent Paris bombings - which it echoes. I particularly like the fiery exchanges between the two old "cantankerous goats" (the pro-Republican Irish doctor & the very royalist English "Colonel Blimp" type) constantly locking horns with each other over the political impasse ... exasperated Brit: "Why are you continually defending the IRA?" contrary Irishman: "I'm not defending them, I'm attacking you!!!". Eddie Byrne (as Flynn) bears a striking resemblance to the contemporary Irish actor James Nesbitt.

[–] spookyrat1 8 years ago

Regarding the underground scenes, yes, I agree. It does gain new relevance given the 2005 bombings and events in France and other places.

Regarding the "arguing friends" inserted I'm sure to attempt give some historical context to the film, I still think more was needed. Those that have little knowledge of the conflicts in Northern Island might struggle to fully understand what is going on, as well as what is motivating the characters' actions and behaviours.🐭

[–] [deleted] 4 years ago

Indeed.

[–] [deleted] 4 years ago

Interesting.