Starring in this fortnight's film section is Irish actor Colm Meaney, who has recently taken on the role of Michael McGuinness in new film The Journey. In his Hot Press exclusive interview, he talks about his own reaction to the media's depiction of McGuinness during his presidential run.
"I thought he was treated disgracefully by the media. I have pointed out on many occasions that anybody who is involved in any struggle for self-determination or independence from colonial forces was involved in an armed struggle. Menachim Begin planted the bomb at the King David Hotel, which was a terrible atrocity. He was never questioned about that- he remained Prime Minister for years and wasn't vilified for it. Martin McGuinness did not create the situation in Northern Ireland; he was born into it. And he said many times that he would have felt ashamed had he not joined the IRA at the time, when his community was under attack."
On whether the new film's message in favour of unity carries greater weight given the current political situation unfolding in America and Europe, Meaney tried his best to hold onto hope that it would create a positive impact.
"The film does celebrate overcoming such popularity, but because the whole Donald Trump thing and the Tea Party are so terribly entrenched, I don't know if I'm optimistic enough to think that it could change. But with these divisive times, there is also talk of how to solve it, so I suppose we hold onto the small hope that this film could contribute something to the language of reconciliation in that area, too."
For the full interview, look for the upcoming issue of Hot Press, available tomorrow.