Watch The Lonely Battle of Thomas Reid

The Lonely Battle of Thomas Reid is a powerful and moving documentary film that tells the true story of one man's courageous stand against the might of the Irish state. Directed by Feargal Ward, the film charts the remarkable journey of farmer and landowner Thomas Reid, who refused to sell his land to the government when plans were made to construct a motorway through his property.

Thomas Reid's battle began in 2003, when he received a letter from the National Roads Authority (NRA) informing him that his land was required for the construction of a new motorway in County Kildare. Despite numerous meetings and negotiations, Thomas refused to sell his land, arguing that it was his home and his livelihood, and that his family had been farming there for generations.

The Lonely Battle of Thomas Reid is a film that explores the power dynamics between the government and individuals, and asks important questions about the value of land, property rights, and the rights of citizens. At its core, the film is a deeply personal and emotional portrait of one man's fight for justice, and the toll that his struggle took on him and his family.

Through a series of interviews and archive footage, the film charts the progress of Thomas Reid's battle over a period of more than a decade. It is a story of persistence and determination, as Thomas refused to back down even in the face of overwhelming opposition from the state. As the years went on, his cause attracted a growing number of supporters, both in Ireland and around the world, who saw in his fight a symbol of resistance against the power of the state.

The footage of Thomas Reid himself is particularly striking, as he is a man whose dignity and resolve shines through in every frame. He is a quiet but resolute figure, ever mindful of the stakes of his battle and the impact it could have on his family and his community. The film shows the strain that his battle took on him, as he faced eviction from his home and the prospect of losing his land and his livelihood. Yet through it all, he remained determined to fight for what he believed was right.

The Lonely Battle of Thomas Reid is also a film that touches on broader themes of Irish history and identity. The struggle for land has been a key feature of Irish history, and the film shows how Thomas Reid's battle connects to this long and complex story. It also touches on the ways in which the Irish state has changed over the years, and how its relationship with its citizens has evolved.

One of the strengths of the film is the way that it balances this broader historical context with the personal story of Thomas Reid and his family. We see how his wife and children were also affected by his struggle, and how they rallied around him in support. The film is also notable for the way that it captures the changing seasons and landscapes of rural Ireland, showing how the land itself is a character in the story.

The Lonely Battle of Thomas Reid is a film that will stay with you long after you've watched it. It is a testament to the power of the individual to take a stand against injustice, and to the importance of fighting for what you believe in. It is also a film that asks important questions about the nature of power, the role of the state, and the meaning of home. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in Irish history, law, or social justice.