In the Name of the Father

In the Name of the Father

Year: 1993

Runtime: 133 min

Language: English

Director: Jim Sheridan

BiographyDrama

In the 1970s, Gerry Conlon is forced to leave Ireland and seeks refuge in England. There, he and his family are wrongly accused of involvement in a pub bombing. Gerry is imprisoned and endures a grueling 15-year ordeal, relentlessly fighting to clear his name and expose the truth behind the miscarriage of justice that has shattered his life and reputation.

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Timeline – In the Name of the Father (1993)

Trace every key event in In the Name of the Father (1993) 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

Gerry's Misidentification

Gerry Conlon is mistakenly identified as an IRA sniper by British security forces, which sets off a chaotic series of events. The misidentification leads to a frantic pursuit by the authorities, ultimately culminating in a riot as tensions escalate.

Belfast
2

Father's Protection

In an effort to safeguard his son from the impending danger posed by the IRA, Gerry's father, Giuseppe Conlon, makes the difficult decision to send Gerry to London. This act of parental love showcases his desperate attempt to protect his son amidst mounting violence.

London
3

Theft and Drug Indulgence

Gerry's life takes a darker turn when he breaks into a prostitute's flat and steals £700. The adrenaline-fueled theft follows him and his friend Paul Hill as they indulge in drugs at a park, highlighting Gerry's descent into a reckless lifestyle.

London
4

The Guildford Explosion

A catastrophic explosion occurs in Guildford, killing four off-duty soldiers and a civilian while injuring many others. The incident is a turning point in Gerry's life as he grapples with its implications while he is in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Guildford
5

Capture by Authorities

Upon returning to Belfast, Gerry is captured by the British Army and the Royal Ulster Constabulary. This capture marks the beginning of his harrowing journey through the justice system as he faces terrorism charges.

Belfast
6

Becoming the Guildford Four

Gerry and Paul, along with two others, are labeled as the *Guildford Four* after being transported to England. They endure brutal police interrogations and torture, a reflection of the intense pressure they are under to yield confessions.

England
7

Forced Confession

Under immense pressure from police threats to his father's safety, Gerry succumbs and signs a false confession. This moment of vulnerability underscores the corrupt tactics used during the interrogation process.

8

The Maguire Seven Arrest

Gerry's family, including his father Giuseppe, are arrested and branded as the *Maguire Seven*. Their arrest adds to the family's suffering and highlights the widening impact of the wrongful accusations against Gerry.

9

Sentenced to Life

Despite the defense highlighting numerous flaws in the police investigation, Gerry and the Guildford Four receive life sentences. This unjust verdict marks a tragic turning point in their lives as they face the grim realities of prison.

Courtroom
10

Joe's Revelation

In prison, Gerry and Giuseppe meet Joe McAndrew, who reveals that he was responsible for the Guildford bombing. Unfortunately, this crucial revelation is suppressed to protect the police's reputation, deepening the tragedy of the wrongful accusations.

Prison
11

Riot in Prison

Gerry's relationship with Joe deteriorates when Joe violently confronts a prison guard during a riot. This act of aggression highlights the volatile environment in the prison and the frayed dynamics among inmates.

Prison
12

Giuseppe's Death

The tragedy escalates further with the death of Gerry's father, Giuseppe, while still in custody. This loss propels Gerry to take up his father's fight for justice and the truth behind their wrongful convictions.

Prison
13

Investigating the Case

Giuseppe's attorney, Gareth Peirce, dedicates herself to investigating the case and uncovers crucial evidence that supports Gerry's original alibi. This newfound evidence could be pivotal in setting the wrongs right.

14

Courtroom Appeal

During a courtroom appeal, a statement from Charlie Burke comes to light, ultimately clearing Gerry and the Guildford Four of all charges. This moment represents a hard-fought victory in their battle against injustice.

Courtroom
15

Ongoing Injustice

The film concludes by highlighting the plight of those wrongfully accused and the lack of repercussions for the police involved. It serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice faced by the innocent.

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 11:34

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Characters, Settings & Themes in In the Name of the Father

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