Preparing for Ireland through movies and reading
In preparation for my trip to Ireland this summer, I have been learning a bit about Ireland through books and movies. I have thoroughly been enjoying it! In the process I’ve come to know a few actors better as well, such as Colin Ferrell and Cillian Murphy. I have listed a few of the highlights of my undertakings. Such fun. Great practice for the accents as well 
My next endeavor, besides actually going to Ireland, is Angela’s Ashes. It’s been recommended. I’ll read the book first.
1. The Wind that Shakes the Barley: a historical story with Cillian Murphy of the beginnings of the IRA, and the way it tore families apart after the “agreement” between Ireland and England as was worked out by Michael Collins, a national hero. Excellent movie, great acting. It sides more with the people that became the opposition to the agreement. There is a song with the same name about the war in Ireland, and I’ve been told that there is also a band with the same name as well!
2. Michael Collins: The story of how Michael Collins (of County Cork) played by Liam Neesen, became such an important figure in Ireland and in forming the Republic or Ireland. It offers a great viewpoint of the “other” side, the more peaceful and accepting side of the agreement and the way that people were split in their beliefs, friends suddenly becoming enemies. Extremely well done. Liam Neeson was born, by the way, in Northern Ireland.
3. Dracula (book): Written by a famous Irishman, Bram Stoker. Takes place in London and Transylvania, however. Good book. Different than the movie with Keanu Reeves and Wynona Ryder.
4. Ondine: Great movie with Colin Ferrell. Kind of a fantasy/fairy tale, but not really. Watch it. It has a mystical feel to it. I have truly come to love the movies that Collin Ferrell is in which bring out the cultural side of him, not so much the American films that he has been in. If you are interested, watch another film, Cassandra’s Dream directed by Woody Allen. Although it takes place in London, he and actor Ewen McGregor make this movie unforgettable. Very different for a Woody Allen film…and one that I love. Another is In Bruges…if you haven’t seen it…you are missing out.
5. Intermission: Another great one. Collin Ferrell and Cillian again, plus a host of others, also great. A funny yet serious look at lives intertwined in Dublin.
6. The Eclipse: Haven’t seen this one yet, but I plan to.
