The Wind That Shakes the Barley Poster

The Wind That Shakes the Barley 2006

★ 7.3881 votes127 min📅 2006-06-23

"War has cost them their innocence... Freedom will cost them their blood."

Set against the rugged landscapes of 1920s Ireland, *The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006)* follows young doctor Damien O'Donovan as he abandons his plans to start a new life in London after witnessing the brutal violence of British forces against his community.

Director: Ken Loach

Cast

Cillian Murphy
Cillian Murphy
Damien
Pádraic Delaney
Pádraic Delaney
Teddy
Liam Cunningham
Liam Cunningham
Dan
Orla Fitzgerald
Orla Fitzgerald
Sinead
Mary O'Riordan
Peggy
Mary Murphy
Bernadette
Laurence Barry
Micheail
Damien Kearney
Damien Kearney
Finbar
Frank Bourke
Frank Bourke
Leo
Myles Horgan
Rory

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006) about?

This powerful drama set in 1920s Ireland follows a young doctor who trades his scalpel for a rifle after British forces kill an innocent man. As he joins the IRA, he faces impossible choices that pit his ideals against his family's loyalty, leading to a heartbreaking rift with his brother. The film captures the brutal realities of war and the personal sacrifices behind the fight for independence.

Who directed The Wind That Shakes the Barley?

The Wind That Shakes the Barley was directed by Ken Loach, a filmmaker known for his socially conscious and politically charged works like *I, Daniel Blake* and *Sorry We Missed You*.

Who stars in The Wind That Shakes the Barley?

The film stars Cillian Murphy as Damien O'Donovan, Pádraic Delaney as his brother Teddy, alongside Liam Cunningham, Orla Fitzgerald, and Mary O'Riordan in pivotal roles.

Is The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006) worth watching?

A masterclass in historical drama, *The Wind That Shakes the Barley* is well worth watching for its gripping storytelling and powerful performances. While it's not an easy watch due to its intense themes, it offers a deeply human perspective on Ireland's fight for freedom. Critics and audiences alike praise its authenticity and emotional depth.

How long is The Wind That Shakes the Barley?

The Wind That Shakes the Barley runs for 127 minutes, offering a comprehensive and immersive experience.

🎥 Trailer

About The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006) — A Gritty Drama of Ireland's Struggle for Independence

Set against the rugged landscapes of 1920s Ireland, *The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006)* follows young doctor Damien O'Donovan as he abandons his plans to start a new life in London after witnessing the brutal violence of British forces against his community. Directed by Ken Loach with raw, unflinching realism, the film immerses viewers in the violent struggle for Irish independence, where loyalty, betrayal, and family bonds are tested against the backdrop of guerrilla warfare and political upheaval. With stunning performances from Cillian Murphy and Pádraic Delaney as the O'Donovan brothers, the movie explores themes of sacrifice, idealism, and the cost of freedom, capturing the emotional weight of a nation divided.

A haunting drama that blends personal drama with historical epic, *The Wind That Shakes the Barley* delivers a gripping portrayal of ordinary people swept up in extraordinary circumstances. The film's stark atmosphere and unflinching portrayal of conflict make it a poignant reflection on the price of liberty and the enduring scars of revolution.