Belfast = Ideology

Question 1

Sectarian Violence =

Answer 1

• The film begins with a sudden outbreak of violence impacting Buddy which introduces the viewer to the irrationality of sectarianism
• Billy becomes a symbol of extremism exposing how community can be weaponised for ideological purposes
• Buddy remains confused about the violence and why Portestants and Catholics are enemies which acts as a criticism for the violence
• Billy embodies the dangers of radical nationalism and identity based violence. He represents how the community is fractured using fear and intimidation
• Billy utilises an us versus them mentality to assert dominance and control
• Pa repeatedly rejects Bill’s offer which leads to violence which shows how extremist ideology results in violence

Question 2

Nostalgia =

Answer 2

• The past is an idealised memory even though it was violent, it highlights the love and community that Buddy had
• The monochrome cinematography creates a dreamy sentimental quality which reinforces the idea of a recollection rather than realism
• Music becomes a bridge to the past and symbol of cultural identity. Van Morrison establishes a romanticised 1960’s Belfast
• The selective focus on Buddy’s happier memories such as his crush and family shows how memory ignores the harsher moments of the troubles focussing on his happier memories
• Nostaliga is used as a form of remberance and reflects how everyone struggled differently

Question 3

Family =

Answer 3

• The family are a moral refuge and keep the family safe and stable within the chaos
• Ma is loving and caring attempting to protect their sons from the violence and corruption. Ma is passionate, fierce and emotionally driven
• The grandparents play a crucial role offering comfort and wisdom to the family helping Buddy’s life remain normal when the troubles surround
• The family act as a haven and sense of security amidst the violence
• Buddy is saved from being radicalised or in any sense of danger through the families strong sense of love and protection

Question 4

Migration =

Answer 4

• Pa sees leaving as an escape from the increasing violence yet faces resistance from Ma who is rooted in the community, culture and memories which highlights the emotional struggle for those deeply tied to place and identity
• ‘For those who stayed, for those who left and for those who were lost’ It is a collective generational wound that everyone in Ireland faced
• The emotional impact of leaving Granny behind in the troubles which highlights the mental struggle of leaving people you love for a better future

Question 5

Innocence and Childhood =

Answer 5

• The film is shown from Buddy’s point of view which blurs the conflict into moments of fear and confusion
• Cinema is used to highlight the escapist nature of childhood and how cinema was an escape for Buddy
• Buddy’s lack of understanding leads to him getting intertwined with the violence and how it affects his family
• ## It is a semi-autobiographical piece of Brannaugh’s childhood which idealises and paints a nostalgic view