When Anton O’Neill returns home after five years at sea, he finds that 1970’s Ireland is a radically different place to the one he left behind. Northern Ireland is in flames, and civil unrest has spilled south of the border to his beloved home in County Cavan. Blinded by hatred and misguided patriotism, Anton is led into an illicit world of violence and is forced to choose between his family and his country. Hunted and on the run, he is drawn into a battle of wills with the law and his former accomplices, ending in a showdown in which he must risk everything to protect the woman he loves.
Graham Cantwell’s debut feature film Anton was nominated for 3 IFTAs at the Irish Film and Television Academy Awards in 2010. The film was picked up for distribution at the Cannes Film Festival and has sold to over 40 territories worldwide. It had a three week domestic theatrical release and hit the Top 10 in DVD sales charts at Christmas on its release in Ireland.
Beautifully directed by Graham Cantwell. Impressive cinematography and a heartbreaking score.
– The Dubliner
A very accomplished first feature, powerful, smart and impressive, beautifully shot.
– RTE
A confident debut feature, commendably unpredictable. Captures a festering atmosphere of bigotry and misguided patriotism.
– The Irish Times
The film’s period setting is impeccable, from the flared trousers to the grainy cinematography, while the performances are stand-out. In its swooping, scenic shots, action scenes and use of soundtrack Anton reveals true talent in the form of director Graham Cantwell.
– Metro
Well paced and moodily shot, believably recreates the paranoid atmosphere of the borders in the 1970s. One of the better troubles films to date.
– The Independant
A powerful thriller made with originality and gusto. A sterling cast.
– Irish Examiner
A call to arms to the indigenous Irish film industry. Vivid cinematography and strong performances make for a compelling drama.
– TV Now
An impressive debut with stirring performances.
– The Sunday Times
Director Graham Cantwell rarely lets the tension ease, building the drama to a fine and satisfying conclusion.
– Boston Irish Film Festival
A slick and pacy thriller.
– Entertainment.ie
A slick, gripping and thought-provoking thriller, sure to inspire Irish film-makers for years to come.
– Dublinks.com
