Veronica Guerin, Irish/Uk/American movie (2003)

Looking back over the past few decades, there have been a lot of movies that feature some strong female performances, and that were based on true life stories. Two movies that spring to mind in that category are Gorillas in the Mist, and the other is Erin Brockovich. Both of those movies, although based on entirely different stories, do have one thing in common: a woman that is not afraid to expose the truth, not even if it means dying for it. Sigourney Weaver and Julia Roberts both delivered incredibly strong  roles, and truly carried these movies. Needless to say I love movies like that, because it shows how far a person is willing to go to stand up for what they believe in. A little bit lesser known, but no less powerful movie is Veronica Guerin.

Kate Blanchett plays the lead role of the Irish journalist Veronica Guerin. At one point in her life Veronica is tired of the simple articles she is writing, and decides to focus on a story that does matter. The movie takes place in the early nineties, a time where Ireland is experiencing a high crimerate, especially with drugs. Drugdealers are commonplace at that time, and pretty much control whole residential areas. Veronica decides to do something about it, and tries to expose the men in charge through her articles. However, at that point a dangerous new player appears, and he definitely is not happy with the things that Guerin is writing. Not before long, Veronica is in fear for her life, but despite that, she continues her crusade against drugs. A decision she might come to regret…

If there is one thing that I could name that makes this movie worth the watch, it is Kate Blanchett’s role. Ofcourse she has always been a very accomplished actress, but I especially liked her in this movie. She did get a Golden Globe for her performance, but was sadly overlooked by the Oscars, and did not even receive a nomination. As for the movie itself, directed by Joel Schumacher, it tells a very gripping story. It does so in a pretty brutal fashion, and does not shy away from violence. Some of the scenes are not for the fainthearted, but do serve to make clear how high the stakes are. As this is based on a true story, it only makes the aftermath of this movie more powerful. Despite everything, it makes it clear that one (wo)man can really make a difference. All in all this is a very good movie, and I highly recommend it.

I give Veronica Guerin a 9 out of 10 score.

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