I, Dolours

Shabby re-enactments and a poor soundtrack do a great disservice to an otherwise pretty depressing story which enlightens some, and drones on far too often. Poor, poor film.

It's always good to see things from both sides of the story whilst I don't agree with her actions it is easy to see how someone with such a life and oppression by both Protestant and British rule could be radicalised in that way and feel sold out by the peace agreement. A fascinating retelling of the life story of a troubled yet in her own way courageous even if full of fault woman.

I, Dolours doesn't give you a real sense of the culture of the place and time like it might have with better illustrative details instead of the dry, boring re-enactments. I was frankly very disappointed because the story of Dolours Price is very compelling. Anyone interested in the Price sisters or learning more about the Troubles should read "Say Nothing: A true story of murder and memory in Northern Ireland" by Patrick Radden Keefe instead of watching this, or even watch "Fifty Dead Men Walking", a biographical account of an informant. There's a lot better material out there fortunately.

This film takes us into the life of Dolours Price and also offers a look into life in general in Northern Ireland during The Troubles. However, its overall effect here is one of a missed opportunity. It's poorly executed, with dramatizations that are often poorly done, boring or confusing. I'm still glad I watched for the bit of new details it offered me, but I wasn't as impressed as I'd expected to be. For a much better and fuller picture of Price, The Troubles, and a shocking incident involving the murder of a widowed mother of 10, read "Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland" by Patrick Radden Keefe.

If you want to know just how much a conflict can mess people up then there's plenty of insight here. When you try and set one group as overlords of another group, as was done in the north of the island of Ireland, you make trouble for all involved. Whatever you think of the rights and wrongs of the British involvement in Ireland this little film shows you some of the consequences.

Recommended.