Borstal Boy 2001
"As a prisoner of war it is my duty to escape."
Peter Sheridan's gripping drama *Borstal Boy* (2001) plunges viewers into the turbulent world of Brendan Behan, a 16-year-old IRA volunteer caught in a botched bombing mission during WWII.
Director: Peter Sheridan
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Borstal Boy (2001) about?
The film follows Brendan Behan, a 16-year-old IRA soldier arrested during a failed mission in WWII and sent to a British reform school. Inside Borstal, he grapples with his beliefs, the harsh realities of prison life, and unexpected friendships that challenge his worldview.
Who directed Borstal Boy?
Peter Sheridan directed *Borstal Boy*, bringing a visceral and emotional depth to the adaptation of Brendan Behan's autobiographical novel.
Who stars in Borstal Boy?
The film features Shawn Hatosy as Brendan Behan, alongside Danny Dyer, Robin Laing, Eva Birthistle, and Ian McElhinney in pivotal roles.
Is Borstal Boy (2001) worth watching?
With its intense performances and thought-provoking themes, *Borstal Boy* offers a compelling, if gritty, look at youth and ideology. While not widely rated, its dramatic weight and historical context make it a standout drama for fans of character-driven films.
How long is Borstal Boy?
The runtime of *Borstal Boy* is 91 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Borstal Boy (2001) — A raw look at youth, war, and defiance in a wartime reform school
Peter Sheridan's gripping drama *Borstal Boy* (2001) plunges viewers into the turbulent world of Brendan Behan, a 16-year-old IRA volunteer caught in a botched bombing mission during WWII. Sent to a stark reformatory in England, Brendan's defiant spirit clashes with the rigid routine of Borstal, forcing him to confront the harsh realities of war, ideology, and personal transformation. Based on Behan's semi-autobiographical novel, the film weaves together raw intensity, dark humor, and poignant reflections on youth and rebellion.
Shawn Hatosy stars in the lead role, breathing life into Brendan's journey from fiery idealism to reluctant introspection. Danny Dyer and Robin Laing deliver standout performances as fellow inmates, adding layers of camaraderie and tension to the reformatory's claustrophobic atmosphere. With its unflinching portrayal of adolescence in turmoil, *Borstal Boy* captures a lesser-known chapter of wartime history while exploring themes of identity and redemption.