Watch The Truth Commissioner

The Truth Commissioner is a political thriller film from 2016, featuring an ensemble cast which includes Roger Allam, Barry Ward, and Conleth Hill. It is directed by Declan Recks and written by Eoin O'Callaghan. The film takes place in contemporary Northern Ireland, revolving around a government-appointed "Truth Commissioner" named Henry Stanfield, played by Roger Allam.

As an experienced British diplomat, Stanfield is tasked with investigating and reconciling the bitter conflict between two former IRA members, Michael Madden (Barry Ward) and David Campbell (Conleth Hill). The two men, who were once close friends, have opposing accounts about the events surrounding the death of a young woman, Anne-Marie Smyth, during the height of The Troubles.

The Truth Commissioner deals with themes of memory, trauma, and accountability, as Stanfield navigates the complex political landscape of Northern Ireland to uncover the truth about Smyth's death. The film raises important questions about the role of political figures in addressing the legacy of past violence and promoting reconciliation in post-conflict societies.

At its core, The Truth Commissioner is a character-driven drama, exploring the personal motivations and psychological scars of its central figures. The film is driven by strong performances from its three leads, particularly Roger Allam as the conflicted and emotionally complex Truth Commissioner. His character's evolution throughout the film is testament to Allam's range as an actor.

Barry Ward and Conleth Hill deliver equally strong performances as the two IRA veterans, who are forced to confront their own demons and come to terms with their roles in the violence that plagued their country for decades. Their chemistry is palpable, capturing the uneasy dynamic of former comrades who are now bitter enemies.

The film's cinematography is also notable, capturing the rugged beauty of Northern Ireland's landscapes while also capturing the gritty reality of life in its working-class communities. The use of archival footage and news clips from the Troubles adds to the film's authenticity, rooting it in a historical context that gives weight to its themes.

Overall, The Truth Commissioner is a thought-provoking film that offers a nuanced exploration of the complex issues at the heart of Northern Ireland's troubled history. While it may be slow-paced and dialogue-heavy for some viewers, those who appreciate character-driven dramas and political thrillers will find much to admire in this thought-provoking film.

The Truth Commissioner is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.