'71

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'71
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that '71 is a period wartime action thriller with bloody violent deaths, strong language, and prolonged moments of peril and suspense. Set in Northern Ireland during the "The Troubles" in the 1970s, British soldier Gary Hook (Jack O'Connell), gets accidentally left behind by his unit in a heavily divided part of Belfast. Set against this backdrop of religion and nationality, both soldiers and civilians are shown as being capable of kindness and violence. Violence features throughout, ranging from smaller incidents between individuals to explosions and riots, and attacks with guns and knives that result in death. All of these incidents are shown to have "real-world" consequences, with characters frequently harrowed and plunged into shock and trauma as a result. Swearing also features heavily -- including variants of "f--k" and "c--t" -- with characters cursing out of frustration and fear in numerous situations. Slurs and insults are also directed at people based on their religion and nationality. The divides within the British army are also explored, particularly along the lines of class. There is very little diversity among the main cast, but this is perhaps reflective of the types of jobs done by the main characters, the setting, and the time period. A kid is seen baring their naked backside to a group of soldiers, while in another a scene a kid is seen drinking beer.
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What's the Story?
In '71, new recruit to the British army, Gary Hook (Jack O'Connell), becomes stranded in Belfast during the height of "The Troubles" in 1970s Northern Ireland. With rioting on the streets, Hook must find his way back to safety, but as a soldier of the British army, help is few and far between.
Is It Any Good?
A thoughtful take on an infamous period of British history, this tense thriller is equal parts art house movie and war film. In '71, O'Connell stars in one of the roles that established his rise to Hollywood. He plays Hook, an every man soldier who must overcome and then ultimately come to terms with his part in a messy war of attrition. O'Connell perfectly balances Hook's courage and vulnerability, meaning we empathize with him throughout his ordeal.
However, the setting is arguably the main character, and while English towns were used as a stand-in for Northern Ireland, the unfussy but effective production design means that we share Hook's sense of disorientation and confusion. Some suspension of disbelief is required as to why certain characters do not kill each other when they have the chance. But overall '71 excels at keeping the viewer engaged with its mix of bombast and slow-creeping dread.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in '71. Did the blood and gore seem over the top? Did the violent scenes help tell the story in an effective way? Was it shocking or thrilling? Why? Does exposure to violent media desensitize kids to violence?
Discuss the strong language used in the movie. Did it feel appropriate for the type of movie it was? What did it contribute to the movie?
How did Hook demonstrate courage and perseverance? Why are these such good character strengths to have? Can you think of any times when you've had to show courage and perseverance?
What did you know about "The Troubles" in Northern Ireland before you saw this movie? Has it encouraged you to find out more? How to talk to kids about violence, crime, and war.
Talk about Hook's mental health. How is the advice he received about dealing with trauma different to what he might be encouraged to do today? In what other ways has understanding mental well-being improved over the years?
Movie Details
- In theaters: February 27, 2015
- On DVD or streaming: July 7, 2015
- Cast: Jack O'Connell, Sean Harris, Sam Reid
- Director: Yann Demange
- Studio: Roadside Attractions
- Genre: Thriller
- Topics: History
- Character Strengths: Courage, Perseverance
- Run time: 99 minutes
- MPAA rating: R
- MPAA explanation: strong violence, disturbing images, and language throughout
- Last updated: March 31, 2022
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