50 Dead Men Walking

Canadian Kari Skogland’s adaptation of real-life informer Martin McGartland’s 50 Dead Men Walking returns to 1980’s Belfast, where McGartland (Sturgess) is making his way up the IRA hierarchy whilst leaking vital information to British special agent Fergus (Kingsley) that potentially could save up to 50 lives. Skogland gives a gritty, unbiased view of the Irish troubles, complete with thick Irish accents and uncompromising riot scenes between the British army and embittered locals. It’s essentially an action thriller with Sturgess demonstrating real talent despite the fact that the role doesn’t offer much motivation behind his actions. Giving the film the title of the book will make the film a harder sell, and Skogland’s approach, at times opting to show obvious scenes of the troubles, leaves Sturgess’s performance as the outstanding factor. It's solid fare for those interested in the subject but Hunger deals with similar preoccupations and ought to be seen in preference. [Matt Arnoldi]