Directed by Oliver Hirschbiegel (known for Downfall ), the film won the World Cinema Directing Award and the World Cinema Screenwriting Award at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival. Critical Reception Five Minutes of Heaven (2009)
In Lurgan, a 17-year-old member of the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF), Alistair Little, murders 19-year-old Catholic Jim Griffin. The act is witnessed by Jim's 11-year-old brother, Joe. This part of the film is based on a real historical event. Five Minutes of Heaven
The film subtly critiques modern media for attempting to "exploit people for ratings" by forcing a high-stakes reconciliation on camera. Directed by Oliver Hirschbiegel (known for Downfall ),
The film marks the first time Northern Irish stars Liam Neeson and James Nesbitt shared the screen. Critics have praised Neeson's "stoically powerful" portrayal of a man haunted by guilt and Nesbitt's "explosive" performance as a man consumed by vengeful rage. This part of the film is based on a real historical event
A central irony explored is how the perpetrator (Alistair) has spent years seeking peace and atonement, while the victim (Joe) has been trapped and "morphed" by his lifelong hatred.
