Global Heresy

Watch Global Heresy

"The World's Hottest Band Is About to Be Torn Apart"
  • R
  • 2002
  • 1 hr 46 min
  • 6.0  (1,694)

Global Heresy (2002) is a drama film that tells the story of a young and idealistic musician named Johnny Byrne (played by Peter O'Toole), who is disillusioned with the music industry and decides to start his own radio station in a remote corner of Wales. With the help of his longtime friend and bandmate, Jack (Vincent Perez), Johnny sets up a studio in an abandoned cottage and begins broadcasting music and political commentary to the surrounding countryside. He is soon joined by his estranged wife, Gwenny (Joan Plowright), a former political activist who is trying to reconnect with her past.

As the popularity of Johnny's radio station grows, he attracts the attention of a powerful media mogul named Quentin (Edward Fox), who sees the potential for profit in the venture. Quentin offers to finance the station, but Johnny refuses, fearing that he will lose control of the content and message of the broadcasts. Quentin then sets out to sabotage Johnny's operation, using his considerable resources to disrupt the signal and discredit the station in the eyes of the public.

Meanwhile, Gwenny becomes increasingly passionate about the political issues that Johnny is discussing on the airwaves, and she begins to organize a protest against a nearby military base. Her involvement in the activism leads to tension between her and Johnny, who is more focused on the music than the politics. Adding to the drama is the arrival of Johnny's ex-girlfriend, Marcy (Alicia Silverstone), a successful musician who is touring the country with her band. Marcy's presence complicates Johnny's relationship with Gwenny and adds a romantic subplot to the film.

As the conflict between Johnny and Quentin intensifies, the radio station becomes a symbol of resistance against the corrupt and powerful media establishment. The film culminates in a dramatic showdown between Johnny and Quentin, with the fate of the station hanging in the balance.

Global Heresy is a thought-provoking film that explores themes of art, politics, and corporate greed. The star-studded cast delivers strong performances, especially Peter O'Toole, who brings his signature gravitas to the role of the idealistic musician. Joan Plowright and Alicia Silverstone also shine in their supporting roles, adding depth and complexity to the film's relationships.

Director Sidney J. Furie paints a vivid picture of the Welsh countryside, using the natural beauty of the landscape to contrast with the industrial and technological power of the media conglomerates. The film's soundtrack, which features music from the likes of Coldplay and Radiohead, adds to the atmosphere of rebellion and artistic expression.

Overall, Global Heresy is a worthy addition to the canon of films about the struggle between artists and the establishment. Its message about the importance of independent voices and the power of music and art to inspire social change remains relevant to this day.

Global Heresy
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Description
  • Release Date
    2002
  • MPAA Rating
    R
  • Runtime
    1 hr 46 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.0  (1,694)
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