The Guarantee

The Guarantee is a compelling drama directed by Ian Power, who artfully brings to life the major political and financial events that took place during Ireland's financial crises. Released in 2014, this influential movie centers on the few days leading up to the Irish Government's momentous decision to bail out the Irish Banks on September 29th, 2008.

The movie features an exceptional performance by Gary Lydon as Brian Lenihan, the Irish Finance Minister at that time. The actor constructs a deep, humane, and convincing portrayal of the minister, who was entrusted with the most challenging task of deciding the fate of Ireland's banking system, and, in many ways, the country's future as a whole.

Peter Coonan shines in his role as David Drumm, the Chief Executive of the Anglo Irish Bank. Coonan brings a sharp charisma to Mr. Drumm's character, depicting his persuasive personality, strategic intelligence, and high-risk attitudes that set the stage for the financial calamity.

Orla Fitzgerald plays the role of the journalist, Kate Walsh, who brings an outsider's perspective to interpretation of the unfolding financial crisis events. Her persistent questioning and a dogged search for truth create a crack through which the audience can peer into the intense interactions and high-stake decisions inside the government building. Representing the prying eyes of the public and media, Fitzgerald delivers a captivating performance.

The Guarantee delves into the complexities of the financial crisis and lays out the narrative in an easily comprehensible format for audience members who may not be familiar with the intricacies of banking and finance. This gripping account combines political battles, economic theories, and financial downfall to capture the audience's attention from start to finish. It humanises the players involved in this significant event, showing their inner struggles, dilemmas, and the burden of their immense responsibilities.

Set predominantly inside the corridors and rooms of government buildings and financial institutions, the movie has an intense, claustrophobic feel that echoes the immense pressure faced by the characters. The cinematography captures this atmosphere effectively, as does the gripping and fittingly ominous score. It gives a sense of authenticity to the unfolding events and contributes to the overall seriousness and magnitude of the situation in its true dramatic essence.

The screenplay, by Colin Murphy, expertly manages a fine balance. The language and exchanges between the characters encapsulate both the bureaucratic language of finance and the down-to-earth reality of a country facing an unprecedented crisis. The dialogues are crisp, and every conversation matters. There's a commendable effort to truthfully portray the story without overly dramatizing or overly simplifying the plot.

There are moments of humor and wit which punctuate this otherwise dramatic narrative, providing occasional, welcomed levity. The development of characters over time is worth watching, as their understanding of the situation deepens and their struggles magnify parallel to the intensification of the crisis.

The Guarantee does more than telling a story about a financial crisis; it also explores themes of responsibility, nationalism, personal ethics, and the complicated nature of power. It lays bare the tension between national stewardship and individual interest, between the good of the many and the good of the few, and between what is legal and what is moral.

In conclusion, The Guarantee is a masterfully orchestrated drama that delves into one of Ireland's most pivotal events in recent history: the financial crisis of 2008 and the government's decision to guarantee the banks. The film is an engaging mix of engaging performances, well-structured narrative, and an adept exploration of individual emotions and national interests. This attribute makes it more than just a history lesson but an essential watch for those interested in understanding the nuances of power and decision-making in times of national crisis. The Guarantee is sure to leave audiences thinking long after the credits roll.