'71

'71

Year: 2015

Runtime: 99 min

Language: English

Director: Yann Demange

ActionDramaThrillerWar

In 1971 Belfast, a young soldier is separated from his unit during a violent riot. Stranded and alone, he must survive a perilous night as he encounters both danger and unexpected alliances in the city's fractured landscape. Facing escalating tensions and struggling to find his way back to safety, he witnesses the brutal realities of the conflict and the complex loyalties that define the community.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – '71 (2015)

Trace every key event in '71 (2015) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Gary Joins the Army

Gary Hook decides to enlist in the British Army, believing that it is the only way to provide for himself and his younger brother, Darren, who lives in an orphanage. Their strong bond is evident, highlighting the sacrifices Gary is willing to make for their future.

2

Training Begins

Once Gary arrives at the barracks, he undergoes intense and grueling training designed to foster unity among the soldiers. The motto 'never abandon a fellow soldier' resonates deeply, preparing them for the challenges ahead.

British Army Barracks
3

Deployment to Belfast

Gary's squad is deployed to Belfast in 1971 during the tumultuous period known as The Troubles. Led by the inexperienced Lieutenant Armitage, the squad is briefed on the delicate tensions between the Catholic Nationalists and Protestant Loyalists.

1971 Belfast
4

Operations Begin

Upon arrival, the squad begins to support the Royal Ulster Constabulary by inspecting Catholic homes, a move that leads to heightened confrontations. Gary is forced to witness firsthand the brutal hostility of the conflict.

Belfast
5

Tragic Incident

In a chaotic moment, a young boy seizes a fallen soldier's weapon, prompting a frantic chase by Gary and a fellow soldier. The risks become apparent when Gary watches helplessly as his comrade is gunned down by a Nationalist named Paul Haggerty.

Belfast
6

Survival Instincts Kick In

As the violence escalates, Gary finds himself trying to evade gunfire while navigating the hostile streets of Belfast. He attempts to blend into the civilian landscape by changing out of his military uniform, showcasing the desperation of his situation.

Belfast
7

Encounter with Loyalists

While trying to escape, Gary inadvertently stumbles into a pub filled with Loyalists constructing a bomb under the supervision of the Military Reaction Force. The situation quickly turns dire as a massive explosion rocks the pub, leaving him disoriented.

Loyalist Pub, Belfast
8

Acts of Compassion

In the aftermath of the explosion, Gary lies unconscious and is discovered by Eamon and his daughter Brigid, members of the local Catholic community. Despite the danger, Eamon tends to Gary's wounds, illustrating a moment of humanity amidst the chaos.

9

Search for Hook

As Gary remains missing, Lieutenant Armitage grows increasingly concerned about his squad's safety. Meanwhile, Eamon seeks to reach out to the IRA in hopes of a more humane response regarding Gary's situation.

10

Confrontation with Captors

Gary’s journey takes a perilous turn as he ends up face-to-face with a group of captors led by Quinn. Intense moments unfold as Quinn prepares to execute Gary, but a hesitation from a young recruit complicates the situation.

11

Intervention and Chaos

Just as it seems that Gary's fate is sealed, Browning's forces intervene, sparking chaos that turns the tides of loyalty and power within the factions. The violence escalates, engulfing everyone involved.

12

Return to Barracks

After surviving numerous brushes with death, Gary is eventually able to return to his barracks. The harrowing experiences he has endured leave him changed, and he struggles to process the trauma of the conflict.

British Army Barracks
13

Reunion with Darren

In the culmination of his harrowing journey, Gary is reunited with his beloved brother Darren. Their reunion underscores the enduring bond between them, providing a moment of solace amidst the turmoil of their surroundings.

Last Updated: November 07, 2024 at 23:22

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'71 Summary

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'71 Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in '71

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Characters, Settings & Themes in '71

More About '71

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