Belfast

Belfast

Year: 2021

Runtime: 98 min

Language: English

Director: Kenneth Branagh

Drama

In this poignant drama, Branagh draws from his own childhood to craft a powerful coming-of-age tale. As a 9-year-old boy navigates the tumultuous streets of Belfast, he must confront the sudden upheaval of his world. Amidst the turmoil, the film finds solace in the simple pleasures of laughter, music, and cinema.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Belfast (2021)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Belfast (2021). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

August 1969

August 1969 marks a significant turning point in Irish history, characterized by increasing tensions between Protestant and Catholic communities in Northern Ireland. This period saw widespread riots and violence, leading to the establishment of barricades and a heightened sense of fear among families. It was a time when the innocence of childhood clashed with harsh realities, forcing families to confront their identities and relationships.

Location

Belfast

Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is a city marked by its complex history and rich culture. During the late 1960s, it became the epicenter of political and sectarian conflict known as The Troubles, deeply affecting the lives of its residents. The city's streets were a battleground for contrasting communities, shaping the lives of families living in its neighborhoods.

🏙️ City 🇮🇪 Northern Ireland

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:01

Main Characters – Belfast (2021)
Meet the key characters of Belfast (2021), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Buddy

Buddy, a nine-year-old boy, is at the heart of the film, navigating the complexities of childhood against a background of political unrest. He is curious, empathetic, and deeply affected by his surroundings. His friendships, notably with a Catholic classmate, reveal his innocence and the struggles of love amidst division.

👦 Child ❤️ Innocence

Ma

Ma is a steadfast matriarch, deeply rooted in her community and protective of her family. As tensions rise, her concerns for their safety clash with Pa's ambitions to migrate for a better future. Her love for Belfast underscores her resilience and emotional plight throughout the film.

👩‍👦 Mother 🌍 Home

Pa

Pa is a father figure torn between his family's well-being and his obligations overseas. His struggle with distance and the pressure of providing highlights the emotional challenges faced by working-class families during turbulent times. His dreams of leaving Belfast signify his desire for safety and a brighter future for his children.

👨‍👦 Father 🌍 Provider

Granny

Granny is the family's matriarch, embodying wisdom and nostalgia. Her deep connection with her home and loved ones reveals the emotional toll of the family's impending departure. She represents the heart of family ties and the pain of loss as she remains behind.

👵 Grandparent 💔 Nostalgia

Pop

Pop is a supportive grandfather who provides guidance to Buddy as he navigates his feelings and experiences. His warm presence and encouragement reinforce the importance of family bonds during times of crisis, acting as a stabilizing force for the younger generation.

👴 Grandparent 🤝 Guidance

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:01

Major Themes – Belfast (2021)
Explore the central themes of Belfast (2021), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Family Dynamics

The film explores the complexities of family relationships amid external turmoil. Buddy's family's struggles reveal how financial pressures and societal upheaval can strain partnerships and parent-child dynamics. As they navigate their uncertainties, the themes of love and sacrifice emerge strong.

🕊️ Division and Unity

Set against the backdrop of civil unrest, 'Belfast' poignantly addresses the theme of division within a community. Buddy's innocent feelings for a Catholic classmate highlight the potential for unity in the face of societal conflict. The film ultimately conveys that love and personal connections can transcend the barriers imposed by hatred.

🚸 Childhood Innocence

Through Buddy's perspective, the film presents a child's journey of discovering friendship and love amidst chaos. His experiences reflect the bittersweet nature of growing up during turbulent times, where innocence is tested but remains a precious thread in human relationships.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:01

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