Watch Hidden Agenda

Hidden Agenda is a political thriller film that was released in 1990. Directed by Ken Loach and written by Jim Allen, the movie explores the true story of a British human rights organization named British-Irish Rights Watch (BIRW) and its investigation into the British government's role in the murder of Irish civil rights lawyers during the Troubles in Northern Ireland.

The main character of the story is Paul Sullivan (Brad Dourif), an American lawyer who works for BIRW. He joins the investigation team led by the organization's director, Moira (Frances McDormand), and a British investigator named Kerrigan (Brian Cox). They start to uncover evidence that implicates the British military and the intelligence service MI5in the murders of the lawyers, and as they get closer to the truth, they become the target of violent attacks from unknown assailants.

With the help of a mysterious IRA agent named Hackett (Maurice O'Callaghan), Paul and his team are able to uncover a web of corruption and deception that leads all the way to the highest levels of the British government. But as they get closer to the truth, they realize that their actions have put them in grave danger and that they may not live long enough to bring the evidence to light.

The film is set against the backdrop of the tense political situation in Northern Ireland, with the Troubles as a constant presence. The plot is tense and suspenseful, with moments of violence and uncertainty that keep the viewer on edge. However, the film is also infused with a sense of social justice and moral outrage that gives it a deeper, more meaningful dimension.

The acting is superb, with Frances McDormand giving an understated but powerful performance as Moira, a woman who is deeply committed to the cause of justice but struggles to balance her passion with the practicalities of running an investigation. Brian Cox is equally impressive as Kerrigan, a hard-nosed investigator with his own agenda and motivations. Brad Dourif gives a nuanced performance as Sullivan, an idealistic lawyer who has to come to grips with the harsh reality of political struggle.

The film is also notable for its use of documentary footage and interviews, which give the story a sense of verisimilitude and authenticity. The footage of the British government's response to the investigation is particularly chilling, as it reveals a callous, indifferent attitude towards the human rights abuses committed in Northern Ireland.

Overall, Hidden Agenda is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores important themes of justice, politics, and human rights. It is a testament to the tenacity and courage of those who fight for justice in the face of overwhelming power, and a reminder that the struggle for freedom and equality is never over.

Hidden Agenda is a 1990 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.