Drama
Ireland,United Kingdom
Starred Up is a 2013 British drama film directed by David Mackenzie. The film follows the story of Eric Love (played by Jack O'Connell), a 19-year-old who is transferred to an adult prison where his estranged father, Neville (Ben Mendelsohn), is imprisoned. Eric is a violent and troubled youth who quickly becomes entangled in the brutal prison system, where he finds himself in conflict with both the other inmates and the corrupt prison authorities.
The film explores the complex relationship between Eric and Neville, as well as Eric's struggle to come to terms with his own violent tendencies and find a way to control his anger. Along the way, he is approached by a volunteer psychotherapist, Oliver (Rupert Friend), who runs an anger management group for prisoners. Through this group, Eric begins to confront his own issues and find a path towards redemption.
Throughout the film, Eric must navigate the dangerous and unpredictable world of prison politics, where alliances and allegiances shift constantly, and violence is always just a moment away. He also must contend with his own father, who vacillates between trying to protect Eric and punishing him for his mistakes.
Starred Up is a powerful and intense film that pulls no punches in its depiction of the brutal realities of prison life. It is a gripping exploration of the themes of redemption, family, and the struggle for survival in an unforgiving environment. The film received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with particular praise for O'Connell's intense and nuanced performance as Eric Love.
