“In Ireland’s darkest hour, vengeance shines a light.”
Black ’47 is a gripping historical action drama set during the Great Irish Famine. Directed by Lance Daly, the film blends emotional storytelling with brutal action. With powerful performances from Hugo Weaving and James Frecheville, it tells a story of loss, resistance, and retribution.
A Soldier Returns to Ruin
Martin Feeney (James Frecheville), an Irish soldier serving with the British Army, deserts his post and returns home in 1847. What he finds is devastation. His mother has died of starvation, and his brother has been executed.
Everywhere he looks, he sees cruelty. Landlords are evicting starving families. British officers enforce injustice with cold precision. Feeney, with nothing left to lose, begins a campaign of revenge—targeting those who brought suffering to his people.
The Hunter Becomes the Hunted
To stop Feeney, the British send Hannah (Hugo Weaving), a battle-worn soldier with a complicated past. As Hannah follows Feeney through the rugged Irish landscape, the line between justice and vengeance begins to blur.
Their deadly game of pursuit unfolds across mountains, villages, and burned-out farms—painting a stark picture of a nation pushed to the edge.
Why This Film Stands Out
- A Rare Setting: Few films tackle the Irish Famine. Black ’47 uses it as both backdrop and driving force.
- Emotional Depth: The film shows the human cost of oppression, not just through violence but through silence, hunger, and grief.
- Visually Stunning: Shot in Connemara, the landscape becomes a haunting character of its own.
Reception and Legacy
Black ’47 premiered at the Berlin Film Festival on February 16, 2018, and released in Irish theaters on September 7. It holds a 6.8/10 rating on IMDb. Critics praised its cinematography, authenticity, and bold portrayal of a painful chapter in Irish history.
The film became a box-office success in Ireland, striking a chord with audiences for its emotional power and national significance.