Ken Loach's "Land and Freedom"

cork | arts and media | event notice Tuesday November 14, 2006 20:40 by Joe Moore - Socialist Workers Party mapuche at eircom dot net 087-2994796

ISKRA in association with New Left Journal presents Ken Loach's "Land and Freedom" at the Kino, Washington Street, Cork, at 12.00 noon on Sunday 26th November.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War, when the fascist General Franco began his assault on the democratically elected government. The Popular Front government had begun to initiate reforms which had led to the improvement of the lives of both workers and peasants. These reforms were opposed by the capitalist and landowning classes, who sought the support of right wing elements within the officer corps of the army.

With the active support of both Hitler and Mussolini, Franco launched his coup. The supporters of the government formed armed militias to repel the fascists. A call to support the Spanish government was answered by socialists and anti-fascists from around the world.
Ken Loach's film "Land and Freedom" tells the story of one such English volunteer who on arriving in Spain fought with the Poum. Loach examines the different position taken by those who fought with the POUM and the Anarchists and those who joined the International Brigades. The debates between the two positions are handled similarly to the way he dealt with political arguments in "The Wind that Shakes the Barley"

Like in his recent film, Loach also uses both professional and non-professional actors, one of whom at least was a vetean of the war against Franco. "Land and Freedom" is regarded by many critics as Loach's best film and has not been seen on the big screen in this country in over 10 years.

The film can be seen on Sunday 26th November in the Kino, Washington St at 12.00 noon. Normal admission prices apply.

The film will be introduced by Harry Owens, co-writer of Bob Doyle's autobiography "Brigadista". Bob is the only remaining survivor of the Connolly Column, 15th International Brigade. No Paseran.