Say Nothing

I'll start by saying that the production of this series is excellent, the acting is great, and the overall story is gripping. As someone from Northern Ireland it's always great to see anything from here portrayed in T. V or film, but there is usually a sense that it's a "B rate" production at best. I am thrilled to say that is not the case with 'Say Nothing', this series was so we'll done that I imagine it will be viewed and praised by people the world over. Things like this are usually only interesting to people from the island, people that were directly involved, or history buffs. But I think this will appeal to a broader audience as it is portrayed as a drama series with characters at it's heart.

I can't tell you how many times I have been watching something and have heard the Nortern Ireland accent butchered to the point where I cringe. I have always thought to myself 'if only we had some top actors (that aren't Liam Neeson) who could star in these roles'. We'll im not sure where they've been hiding, but they finally found them! The acting was excellent throughout the entire show, and it's great to see some home grown talent getting some much needed and deserved recognition. I was unfamiliar with most of the cast in this show, but if at least one or two don't go on to be house hold names in the UK I will be surprised (particularly the actors who played the Price sisters).

I haven't read the book, though I would imagine it's more historical and focused on the facts of what happened during the troubles. The show definitely keeps this in mind the historical and cultural impact throughout, although it is mostly character driven. It does a great job of developing the characters and portraying all sides of characters involved and showing a multitude of emotions for people we'd probably rather see as one dimensional in real life.

My only reservation with this show is that I felt the narrative of the troubles was slightly one sided. The focus is of course on the IRA/ republican movement, as such, it's no real surprise that they are viewed as the protagonist. However, there are two sides to the story with the Belfast conflict and it feels as thought the protestant/ unionist side was left out completely.

That being said, I think they done a good job of showing how nasty things got and how the lines got blurred between what is right and wrong, even in war times and even when you are convinced that the only right opinion is yours.

I expect this will be a hard watch for many people, especially those directly effected and those who may still be grieving the loss of loved ones. My hope is that people can enjoy it for what it is, an excellent piece of television on a topic that most of the world may have forgotten or never even heard of, and I hope prejudice doesn't get in the way of enjoying a good show.

This series begins with the IRA's shocking abduction of a mother, Jean McConville, in front of her children. Then it slows down a bit, and settles into the story of two sisters who facilitated a fair number of murders and bombings. The mystery of happened to Mrs. McConville--and why--looms over every episode, but there are many other compelling narratives.

It all looks and seems very authentic. Every episode has a disclaimer stating that Gerry Adams denies his involvement in IRA military actions, but the show defiantly suggests otherwise. Even if some of the details are wrong, the series does bring this ugly period to life in a way that feels real.

If I have one quibble, it is that the sisters are a little too appealing and charming, especially Dolores. No matter how much guilt they may express at any point, it has the effect of romanticizing their lives as terrorists/soldiers/whatever.

A person who plans and carries out a bombing designed to kill or maim hundreds of civilians has a screw loose, yet that scary, unhinged viciousness doesn't come through. Maybe it's impossible to depict it, but these two sisters, and their male IRA cohorts all seem a little too sane and likable. Whether it's seething hatred or callous obliviousness to the suffering of others, some additional exploration of the thinking of people who do this sort of thing would have been good.

The sisters' time in prison is also glossed over rather quickly. Some of the unpleasantness is shown, and they describe how bad it was, but it's all over rather fast.

Still, these are quibbles.

Much of this show is hard to watch. There is just so much sadness and futility and senseless death. And yet the reality was even worse, and this show does a good job of bringing the period back to life. It's definitely the best streaming series I've seen in a while.

Quite the devastating story. Probably the most heart wrenching piece of "entertainment" I've ever seen was episode #6. The younger Price sisters are amazingly well portrayed by 2 actresses I had never heard of (Lola Petticrew and Hazel Doupe). Hope to see them get more mainstream roles going forward. Anthony Boyle also jumped off the screen in every scene he was in. The show couldn't have been cast any better.

I was only vaguely familiar with this story and haven't read the book, so I can't speak to the shows accuracy, but I can say the dialogue is well written and the directors did a fantastic job.

Would absolutely recommend watching this show. Although, I wouldn't suggest watching it in 1 day like I did as you'll lose some sleep.

This series asks the difficult question, if the State discriminates against you, and you use non violence to seek justice. But are met with violence, is the use of counter violence justified. The fact that the story allows us to see the view point of all players adds to the depth of this issue. Traces the evolution of the recent conflict in Northern Ireland through the the lives of two sisters. Fast moving and beautifully filmed and directed. Powerful acting by both male and female leads, especially the two sisters. High degree of realism. You feel you are there witnessing events, rather than just watching. This series is a must see for anyone with an interest in the 30 year conflict in Northern Ireland.

Based on Patrick Radden Keefe's meticulously researched book "Say Nothing," transports viewers into the heart of the Northern Ireland conflict, known as "The Troubles," through a profoundly unique lens.

The film, like the book, goes beyond simply recounting facts. Narrated by the protagonists themselves, it strives to elucidate the motivations and consequences of their actions, adopting a powerful "female gaze" by prioritizing the experiences of the women who participated in and endured the violence.

This offers a unique and invaluable perspective on the Northern Ireland conflict, enhanced by the stunning performances of an exceptional all-female cast.