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S01.E01: The Cause


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The opening scene was powerful. I didn't think they'd start the show with Jean McConville, but I'm glad they did. The sheer terror of masked men turning up and dragging you away at gunpoint, your kids left behind. Even without context, it tells you about the darkness to come.

Then the tone shifts to a completely different, earlier version of the Troubles - the idealism of the Catholic civil rights struggle, in the face of horrendous bigotry, and two teen girls who wanted a better future.

I thought this episode showed the cycles of violence and hatred really well, and demonstrated what is probably inevitable when people are denied their human rights.

I suppose the central question of this series (and of the book) is "was any of what the IRA did justified?" Coming from a Catholic family (with a socialist father who hated Thatcher's government for too many reasons to count), I know what I was told about it, and I think the answer will always depend on what side of the divide you fall on.

The casting of Gerry Adams was spot on, and I really like Anthony Boyle so it's nice to see him getting a prominent role in a Northern Irish drama. From what I've read, the casting of Dolours and Marian is good too - Dolours more glamorous and charismatic, Marian more of a wallflower and follower.

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The book by Patrick Raddon Keefe is one of the best books I've ever read. I'm Irish-American and grew up with vaguely romantic feelings about the IRA. Didn't know enough about what actually happened. I'm sure folks will find this comment problematic, but what I know about The Troubles now -- it feels akin to the Israel-Palestine conflict. Lots of victims, lot of villains, and a level of hatred that's hard to understand. 

I watched the first few episodes on my own, but just re-watched this so that I could watch with my husband. A second viewing is helpful to fully absorb everything. 

Casting seems 10/10. Younger Dolours to older Dolours are a great match. Marion is a great character -- looking forward to her development. 

Those poor McConville children, and their poor mother. It's actually heartwrenching to watch. 

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