Michael Collins Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A charismatic Irishman starts a guerrilla war, negotiates a treaty that nobody likes, and then gets shot by his friends…or maybe not, history is complicated.

🍿 Michael Collins: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Easter Rising and Its Aftermath

The film opens with the Easter Rising of 1916 in Dublin, where Irish rebels, including Michael Collins, Harry Boland, and Eamon de Valera, are quickly overwhelmed by British forces. Following their surrender, key rebel leaders are executed, but de Valera and Collins are imprisoned. This sets the stage for Collins’ determination to change tactics in the fight for Irish independence. Released from prison, Collins sees the need for a new approach. He advocates for guerilla warfare and intelligence gathering, moving away from conventional battles. This period marks the beginning of his rise as a key figure in the Irish Republican Army (IRA).

The War of Independence and Collins’ Rise

Collins becomes the Director of Intelligence for the IRA, orchestrating strategic assassinations and intelligence operations against the British. His innovative tactics and ruthless efficiency quickly make him a formidable opponent. A key aspect of this period is Collins’ close working relationship with Harry Boland, and their shared affection for Kitty Kiernan. The film portrays the escalating violence and the brutal tactics employed by both sides. Collins’ strategies lead to significant victories for the IRA, but also result in harsh retaliations by the British forces, leading to events like the infamous Bloody Sunday at Croke Park.

Negotiating the Treaty and the Seeds of Division

As the conflict intensifies, the British government calls for negotiations. De Valera sends Collins to London to negotiate a treaty, despite Collins’ reservations. The resulting Anglo-Irish Treaty, signed in 1921, establishes the Irish Free State but includes controversial terms such as the partition of Ireland and an oath of allegiance to the British Crown. The treaty sparks a bitter divide within the Irish leadership. De Valera opposes the treaty, leading to his resignation and the split of the Sinn Féin party. This disagreement sets the stage for the Irish Civil War, pitting former comrades against each other.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Michael Collins (Liam Neeson): A charismatic and determined Irish revolutionary who leads a guerilla war against British forces to achieve Irish independence.
• Eamon de Valera (Alan Rickman): The president of Sinn Fein, a complex figure who clashes with Collins over strategy and the terms of Irish independence.
• Harry Boland (Aidan Quinn): Collins’s loyal friend and fellow revolutionary, whose relationship is strained by political differences and romantic rivalry.
• Kitty Kiernan (Julia Roberts): A woman who becomes involved with both Collins and Boland, representing the personal sacrifices made during the fight for Irish freedom.
• Ned Broy (Stephen Rea): A double agent within the Dublin Metropolitan Police who provides crucial intelligence to Collins and the IRA.
• Joe O’Reilly (Ian Hart): A dedicated member of the IRA and close associate of Collins, who remains loyal through the struggles for independence.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Michael Collins: “We won’t play by their rules, Harry. We’ll invent our own.” – Collins says this to Harry Boland after their surrender at the end of the Easter Rising, foreshadowing their guerilla tactics.
• British Officer: “You’re seven minutes late, Mr. Collins.” – The British officer says this to Michael Collins at the ceremony to take down the British flag.
• Michael Collins: “You’ve kept us waiting 700 years. You can have your seven minutes.” – Collins retorts to the British officer, highlighting the long history of British rule in Ireland.
• Michael Collins: “Everyone’s a hero in their own story.” – Said by Collins, reflecting on the complexities and moral ambiguities of the conflict.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $25,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $11,092,559
• Worldwide Gross: $11,136,590

💥 Michael Collins Reviews

Personal Review

I was completely drawn into this movie, even though I already knew the history. Liam Neeson *is* Michael Collins – he embodies the passion and the struggle. The scene where Collins is negotiating the treaty in London made me so anxious and I could feel the weight of the entire nation on his shoulders. I was sobbing during the final scenes. Julia Roberts could have been better, but it didn’t ruin the movie for me, and Rickman was amazing.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of historical dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in Irish history”
  • “Those who appreciate strong performances from Liam Neeson and Alan Rickman”
  • “Adults and mature teens”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Graphic violence and war scenes”
  • “Strong language”
  • “Mature themes related to political conflict”

Professional Reviews

• The New York Times: “Neil Jordan’s ‘Michael Collins’ is a sweeping, powerful epic that captures the intensity and tragedy of Ireland’s struggle for independence. Neeson delivers a commanding performance, though the film occasionally sacrifices historical nuance for dramatic effect. Julia Roberts feels miscast.
• Variety: “A stirring and visually stunning account of Michael Collins’ life, though it simplifies complex political realities. Liam Neeson shines as the charismatic leader, and the battle sequences are visceral and engaging. The historical accuracy is debated, but the film makes for a compelling watch.
• RogerEbert.com: “‘Michael Collins’ doesn’t shy away from the brutality of war, showing the complexities of the Irish struggle. Liam Neeson’s performance is powerful, capturing Collins’ charisma and inner turmoil. While Julia Roberts’ casting is questionable, the film’s strengths outweigh its weaknesses.

Audience Reactions

Liam Neeson’s performance as Michael Collins is captivating and powerful.: Most viewers praise the film’s emotional impact and its ability to bring a complex historical figure to life.

The cinematography beautifully captures the stark reality and beauty of Ireland.: Viewers consistently mention the film’s visual appeal, praising the atmosphere and the attention to detail in recreating historical settings.

Overall Consensus: A powerful and engaging biopic, although some find the historical accuracy questionable and Julia Roberts’ casting distracting. Liam Neeson’s performance is widely praised.

Awards

1. Venice Film Festival (Golden Lion)- 1996

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Director Neil Jordan had wanted to make this film for over 10 years, finally getting the funding after the success of ‘The Crying Game’.”
• “To enhance the film’s authenticity, the production used many actual locations in Dublin, including Kilmainham Jail, where historical events took place.”
• “The score by Elliot Goldenthal received widespread acclaim and was nominated for an Academy Award.”

🖥️ How to Watch Michael Collins?

As a historical drama, “Michael Collins” may be available for rent or purchase on various digital platforms such as Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for streaming options. Physical copies (DVDs and Blu-rays) can often be found at major retailers and online stores like Amazon, offering options for those who prefer owning the movie.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Michael Collins, you might like these similar films:

• Braveheart (1995): Another historical epic about a leader fighting for his country’s freedom against British rule.
• The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006): Explores similar themes of the Irish War of Independence and the subsequent Civil War, with a focus on the moral complexities and personal costs of the conflict.
• The Battle of Algiers (1966): Focuses on revolutionary urban guerrilla warfare to achieve national independence.
• Gettysburg (1993): A historical drama that explores the intricacies of a civil war, focusing on the leaders and the battles that define the conflict.

🛒 Michael Collins Related Products

• Michael Collins (Blu-ray): Experience the epic story of Michael Collins in stunning high definition with this Blu-ray edition, featuring bonus content and behind-the-scenes footage.
• Tim Pat Coogan’s ‘Michael Collins: A Biography’: Delve into the comprehensive biography that inspired the film, offering a detailed and nuanced account of Collins’ life and the Irish struggle for independence.
• Irish Flag: Show your pride with this durable Irish flag, perfect for displaying your heritage and supporting the spirit of Irish independence.
• Celtic Knot Jewelry: Accessorize with a stylish Celtic knot necklace or bracelet, celebrating the enduring symbols of Irish culture and history.

🎧 Soundtrack

Michael Collins features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Funeral” – performed by Elliot Goldenthal
• “Macushla” – performed by Elliot Goldenthal
• “Low whistle and Uilleann pipes” – performed by Davy Spillane

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Irish Rebel song – Michael Collins

Ever wondered what kind of music was inspired by Michael Collins? This rebel song is pretty catchy and gives you a real sense of the emotions surrounding his life. Give it a listen, it’s a great way to connect with the history!

Michael Collins – Irish Ballad (Lyrics)

Want a deeper dive into Michael Collins’ story? This Irish ballad, complete with lyrics and movie clips, is super moving. Honestly, it’s like a mini-documentary set to music – you’ve gotta check it out!

Liam Neeson thinks a united Ireland may happen in his lifetime

Crazy to think about, but Liam Neeson (aka Michael Collins himself!) weighs in on whether a united Ireland could happen in his lifetime. It’s a short clip, but it’s pretty cool to hear his perspective, especially after seeing him in the movie.

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