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Reviews
Branwen (1995)
Adequate Welsh Film loosely based upon Myth
***SPOILERS*** 'Branwen' is a film loosely based upon the Welsh Myth from the Mabinogion. In the myth, Branwen marries the King of Ireland. In the film, Branwen is a Welsh nationalist who meets and marries an Irishman called Kevin, also a Welsh nationalist. The sub-plot centres around the disapproval of Branwen's older brother, Mathonwy (a soldier). This plot is revived near the end of the film and ends with fatal consequences. However, Branwen and Kevin move to Belfast to live and soon have a son called Gwyn. (she conceives before the marriage takes place) Meanwhile, Branwen is keen to become involved with the republican cause despite Kevin's warnings against this. This conflict inevitably spirals into a series of tragedies; both are accused of being involved in the death of a young soldier, harrowing persecution from the IRA and lastly, Branwen's brother returns shadowed by his dislike of Kevin and the effects of the riots. Mathonwy's reappearance also results in the film's tragedy;the devastating death of Branwen's son. Overall, this is a merely adequate film, especially in the recent light of successful Welsh films such as Solomon and Gaenor. It has an important story to tell but there are too many plot-holes and open-ended elements that let the film down. These are obvious as you watch the film especially concerning Mathonwy's background. The film is quite hard to obtain although certain internet sites and the Welsh chain 'Siop y Siswrn' sell the film in a £20 box set including Solomon and Gaenor, Hedd Wyn and Gadael Lenin. Worth the money if you are studying or merely appreciating the world of Welsh film.
Solomon and Gaenor (1999)
Is this an English or a Welsh film???
Being Welsh, and being able to speak the language, I was particularly drawn to this film. This film is also part of the A level syllabus which is taught on Welsh courses, and even for Welsh learners. I see that many people have commented on the content of the film, and the effects of the love story in general. I would like to comment on the 'language' ethic of the film. As the film is trilingual, we notice it immediately raises a cultural conflict. However, most people have found that the film was shot in Welsh and English for the purposes of 'Welsh' audiences. I watched the Welsh version the other day, and it just doesn't make sense. To me, each culture is represented by the language that's spoken, be it Welsh, English and Yiddish. I see English as particularly symbolic as it provides a bridge between the Welsh/ Yiddish culture, which is embodied by Solomon and Gaenor. Why then, is it necessary to have a Welsh version where Solomon can coincidentally speak Welsh with a wonderful accent?? I was very confused by this. I think the English version should remain as it is, as this is the true purpose of the film- to present a story of forbidden love within the diversity of culture. English is a very important part of the film, and to record a Welsh version of it just seems pointless to the meaning of the story. I have every intention of thinking of this as a Welsh film, but that small difference has made a difference to its whole intention. Apart from this, the English version provided us with excellent acting, a wonderful score and a meaningful portrayal of love an Wales.