'Brilliant' War Film on Netflix with 96% Rotten Tomatoes score

For fans of war films - particularly those set against the backdrop of more recent historical conflicts - Netflix has added a critically acclaimed title that powerfully depicts an important chapter in Irish history.

'71 is a 2014 British historical action thriller set in Belfast during the early years of the Troubles. The film follows Gary Hook, a young British soldier (played by Jack O'Connell), who is accidentally abandoned by his unit during a riot.

Forced to survive a harrowing night alone, Gary must navigate a dangerous and unfamiliar urban landscape where allies and enemies are almost impossible to distinguish.

As he traverses the city streets, Gary faces escalating violence and hostility from both sides of the conflict: Catholic Republicans and Protestant Loyalists.

The film delves deeply into themes of survival, identity, and the brutal realities of urban warfare, offering viewers an intense and thought-provoking experience.

The cast features now-prominent actors Jack O'Connell and Barry Keoghan in early career roles, alongside seasoned performers such as Sean Harris, David Wilmot, Richard Dormer, Paul Anderson, and Charlie Murphy. Their performances have been widely praised for their authenticity and emotional depth.

On Rotten Tomatoes, '71 boasts an impressive 96% critics' score - a testament to its impact and quality.

One fan wrote: "An excellent recreation of conflicts inside countries that makes human life meaningless and where people turn conflicts into a lifestyle," noted one viewer.

Another noted: "Gritty, raw, dark, bleak combined with outstanding performances gives masterpiece vibes. Truly remarkable film."

A reviewer who grew up in Northern Ireland during the Troubles shared: "So many movies about the Troubles are either dumb or hopelessly one-sided. But this one is brilliant. 110% recommend."

Others praised its craftsmanship: "'71 is a powerful, disturbing, engrossing and very well-made film about a terrible moment in the history of the UK and Northern Ireland. It has a taut, twisting story and an excellent cast-every single actor."

Although '71 did not catch the attention of the Academy Awards upon its release, it received significant recognition elsewhere.

The film earned honours at the Berlin International Film Festival, multiple nominations at the British Independent Film Awards, and was acknowledged at the BAFTAs.

'71 is now available to stream on Netflix in the UK.