A War of Children

This made-for-TV movie is set in the time period it was made (1972), telling the story of two Northern Ireland families, one Protestant and one Catholic, who have managed, in spite of their different backgrounds, to become friends. Yet they must still struggle against ancient hatreds that have divided their communities and their island -- to the extent that they must maintain their friendship in secret and away from their respective neighborhoods. Despite their efforts, that friendship is gradually eroded by enmity and fear woven so deeply that, before long, it begins to engulf another generation.

Jenny Agutter is the daughter of the Catholic family who finds romance with a British soldier, played by a very young Anthony Andrews. Despite these familiar faces, though, the mostly-Irish cast and the location filming give this movie a deep sense of authenticity. Ultimately, it's a heartbreaking story that pulls no punches -- made all the more poignant because, after so many years, Northern Ireland still has found no lasting peace.