Watch Scapegoat

Scapegoat, a 2009 Irish drama film directed by Leo McCann and starring Stuart Graham, Martin McCann, and Ian McElhinney, follows the story of a group of Irish soldiers on a peacekeeping mission to an African country. The film explores the consequences of war, the impact of trauma on soldiers, and the fallibility of justice. The plot revolves around a young soldier named Jack (Martin McCann) who becomes the victim of a conspiracy involving his commanding officer (Ian McElhinney) and a corrupt local politician. Jack is falsely accused of a war crime and is forced to escape from his base to clear his name. Along the way, he receives help from one of his fellow soldiers, Harry (Stuart Graham), who is haunted by the memories of his past service.

The film is set against the bleak and desolate African landscape, which complements the dark and sombre themes of the story. Scapegoat is a poignant and gripping film that reflects on the corrosive effect of war on the human psyche. The film's impressive performances and thought-provoking themes make it a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring the existential and moral implications of armed conflict.

Stuart Graham portrays Harry, a grizzled and world-weary soldier who has long been disillusioned with the horrors of war. Graham gives an authentic and moving portrayal of the character, imbuing him with a sense of regret and melancholy that underscores his tragic past. In contrast, Martin McCann excels in his portrayal of Jack, a young and idealistic soldier who becomes the target of a conspiracy. McCann's performance is raw and intense, conveying both the fear and courage that Jack experiences throughout the film.

Ian McElhinney, who plays the commanding officer, delivers a commanding and commanding performance that highlights the corrupt and self-serving nature of those in power. His character's callous disregard for human life serves as a stark reminder of the horrors of war and the moral ambiguity that often surrounds it.

The film's script is intelligent and thought-provoking, questioning the ethical implications of peacekeeping missions and the accountability of those in power. The film examines the complex web of allegiances that exist in war zones and the dangerous consequences that occur when soldiers are forced to comply with immoral or illegal orders.

One of the film's strong points is its direction, which effectively creates a sense of suspense and tension throughout the film. The bleak and desolate African landscape is used effectively to reflect the feelings of isolation and hopelessness experienced by the soldiers.

Overall, Scapegoat is a thought-provoking and gripping film that tackles heavy themes with a deft hand. McCann's direction and skillful performances by the film's cast make it an excellent watch for those interested in examining the moral implications of armed conflict. It is a must-see for those who enjoy drama films that explore the psychological impact of warfare.

Scapegoat is a 2009 thriller with a runtime of 1 hour. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.