La nuit des otages

This is a film about men, by men: their humanity and relationships. Excluding one cameo moment (and Mrs Thatcher) there are no women in the film. That it does not matter is the testament to the absolute universal held within this portrayal.

If you have already read the books, this is not a film version of either. The project was undertaken on its own account, starting before John was released. Rather, it zips all files and then presents us with a chance to see what it means to be suddenly plucked from your life.

Co-written by Brian, a lecturer in literature, author, and one of the two, it is a unique telling of a real story about the violence and cruelty that can arise from the human fear of difference. A telling that transcends both through acknowledgment. A must for veterans of hate, seekers of hope, and celebrants of the paradox that a crucible of human failure can fruit the better of gifts.

Men; simple, sparse, sincere. Real.

Iron John meets Alan Bennett. A rare achievement, and a gem on a plate for those with mentoring roles.

How to convey five years captivity in one hour and a half with the whole range of contradictory feelings. This is what Blind Flight is about: Beirut 1985, the true story of Keenan and McCarthy kidnapped by a militant Muslim fundamentalist group. One expects immediately a vision of "baddies V Goodies" but the film is a lot more subtle and fairer than that. The Muslim guardians, despite their violence (Lebanon was in a state of war), remain human, and not stereotyped. In fact they appear as victims of politics and in the same time they reproduce the system they are fighting. What is remarkable is the way John Furse maintains your interest throughout an almost static film; for instance one of the kidnapper is proud to show them his new born baby but he is also proud of his new kalachnikof. The film is intelligent, moving, funny and thought provoking. My thought was "what would I do in their place?". McCarthy and Keenan give us a lesson of courage and wisdom we have been longing for for decades. They don't save the world, they broaden its mind by undergoing the kind of test that enlightens what is important in life.

We were very lucky to meet John Furse the director and McCarthy at the end of the show. They were as genuine, interesting and lucid as their film. John Furse's talent makes me look forward for his next film.

I was in two minds about seeing this film; although I feel it's important to be reminded of both the awfulness and the greatness of the human spirit, I find it hard to stomach violence and cruelty. However, my social conscience overrode my ostrich-like nature and boy am I glad it did. Blind Flight, the story of Brian Keenan and John McCarthy's hostage experiences in Beirut back in the 1980s, is a surprisingly light-hearted and humorous film. Indeed it transpires that a lot of the ad-libbing that occurred during filming had to be cut from the final edit. This fact emphasises the closeness and the nature of the relationship between the two men, being founded on a wry humour that belied the reality of their situation. Ian Hart as Keenan and Linus Roache as McCarthy are phenomenally accurate in their portrayal of the two men, highlighting the differences between this 'odd couple' without ever resorting to caricature.

Although never shying away from the inevitable brutality that occurs when man is given ultimate power over man, all credit to the John Furse for giving a human face to the guards, and showing how 'good' and 'evil' are such subjective notions during political struggles. However the film was also careful to point out that even during such extreme situations, there is a right and a wrong way to treat people. This film made surprisingly little impact in the UK upon its release. I hope it finds the audience it deserves on DVD.

This film is an extraordinary testament to the power of male bonding, hope and courage in the face of long term imprisonment and potential death. In spite of the seriousness of its subject matter, it manages to provide moments of welcome humour and lightness. Brian Keenan and John McCarthy would most probably not have given one another the time of day in any other circumstances, but thrown together as they were in the Lebanon, they developed an extraordinary depth of trust and compassion, and a deep bond which could never be severed. John Furse has created a beautiful, intimate, unflinching study of these two men in captivity....phenomenally acted by Ian Hart and Linus Roache....and this film deserves to be seen by the many not the few. If you can't see it at the cinema, get it out on DVD. If you are a teacher, use it in your classrooms.Whatever you do, please try to see it at least once.

I saw this movie recently at a showing in Brighton and listened to a talk by the director. This movie was brilliant. It's not normally the kind of movie i would choose to see but i'm so glad i did. It's an amazing story and one that everyone should no about. Its emotionally draining but well worth, it really makes you think and puts life into perspective.The story of these two men may not be known to many teenagers but it definitely needed to be told and John Furse has done a great job. Blind Flight is different and compelling, the directing is great and choice of location and actors make this movie incredible. I highly recommend this movie and urge you all to go and see it, and i wish John Furse the best of luck.