Maze

The true events are far more compelling than the events depicted in this film. Why the producers went down this route is beyond me. As a fictional story it is quite a good film, but for anyone with knowledge of actual events it will be a disappointment.

Some may regard this movie as too slow-paced, but I thought it had enough suspense and tension to keep me engaged throughout.

The acting from the 3 leads Tom Vaughan-Lawlor, Barry Ward, and Martin McCann was quite solid, and the film was ably written and directed by Stephen Burke.

In some ways, the movie reminded me of the 1963 classic "The Great Escape".

Maze is an adaptation of the true story of the escape of IRA political prisoners from British captivity in Maze prison, Northern Ireland.

There's a thread of quiet tension about this film that's drawn ever tighter as the prisoners plans to escape intricately come together. At the same time there's a human tale on offer about the connection between people who on initial inspection appear to be on different sides of the bars.

The reality of course is everyone in Northern Ireland is in one way or another held prisoner by the larger conflict. This includes the warden and his family who has a friendship of sorts with the prison break mastermind Larry who is, in turn, obligated by his bonds with his fallen IRA comrades.

The acting in this film is understated but frankly quite excellent. Not for one moment was this film dull or boring and believe me, it could have been given the film takes place in the confines of the Maze prison.

One to watch. 8/10.

No explosions or cartoonish special effects so I won't be surprised if it doesn't play well in the US. Factual learning experience, only wish they would have spent more time explaining the situation at that point in history for the younger crowd.

No pun intended - also I don't think a prison escape movie has been called maze before. It does make sense though. This is based on a real story and there are a few things that happen that sound quite out there - no pun intended here either.

Well acted and really interesting ideas - well I reckon that most were from reality - but that there was still some heightened element to it. I did not study the real case, so I can't say if or what differences there are.

An escape thriller with quite a lot of suspense. Hopefully you can see it that way too.