In the early 1970s, at the height of the IRA's terrorist campaign, a sympathetic but myseterious American film-maker was allowed access to the organisation, and consequently filmed its members as they made and planted bombs. The film, however, was never shown. This documentary attempts to trace how the film was made, what exactly happened to it, and oddly, although it might appear to be IRA propaganda, whether British or American intelligence had any role in its making. It also catches up with some of those featured in the movie, who are mostly unrepentent of their actions. In the overall story of the Troubles, it's a minor affair, but the footage recorded is still a compelling and scary reminder of what can happen when a government is perceived by many to have no legitimancy. Whatever its original purpose, it reminds us now of how fragile, but precious, peace can be.
Review of The Secret Army
