The Field
The Field

Movie spotlight

The Field

1990
Movie
110 min
English

"Bull" McCabe's family has farmed a field for generations, sacrificing much in the name of the land. When the widow who owns the field decides to sell it in a public auction, McCabe knows that he must own it. While no local dare bid against him, a wealthy American decides he requires the field to build a highway. "Bull" and his son decide they must try to convince the American to let go of his ambition and return home, but the consequences of their plot prove sinister.

Insights

IMDb7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes91%
Metacritic70/100
Google Users89%
Director: Jim SheridanGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

An illiterate Irish farmer, Bull McCabe, and his wife Maggie are overjoyed when they finally purchase the small plot of land they have rented for generations. However, their happiness is shattered when an American developer, aided by the corrupt local official, outbids them and plans to build a modern housing estate on their beloved land. Fueled by rage and a desperate sense of ownership, Bull is drawn into a destructive conflict that threatens to consume him and his family.

Critical Reception

The Field was met with significant critical acclaim, particularly for Richard Harris's powerful performance. While some critics found the narrative somewhat melodramatic, the film was widely praised for its exploration of Irish identity, land ownership, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. It garnered considerable attention during awards season, especially for Harris's acting.

What Reviewers Say

  • Richard Harris delivers a career-defining, powerhouse performance.

  • The film powerfully conveys the deep emotional connection to the land and the ensuing conflict.

  • A visceral and often brutal examination of human passion and desperation.

Google audience: Audiences lauded the film for its intense drama and Richard Harris's unforgettable performance, with many finding the story of a farmer's fight for his land deeply compelling and emotionally resonant. Some viewers noted the film's bleakness but acknowledged its powerful storytelling.

Awards & Accolades

Richard Harris was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Bull McCabe. The film also received nominations for Golden Globe Awards and BAFTA Awards.

Fun Fact

Richard Harris was reportedly so immersed in his role as Bull McCabe that he insisted on wearing the character's worn-out boots even when he wasn't filming, to better connect with the character's earthy existence.

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