#SUNDANCE: “IRONBARK”

Review by Amanda Gilmore for Mr. Will Wong

Based on the true story of businessman Greville Wynne (Benedict Cumberbatch) who, during the Cuban Missile Crisis, was sent by MI6 and CIA operatives to the Soviet Union to work with a mole Oleg (Merab Ninidze) and bring back documents.

This unflinching Political Drama pays tribute to the ordinary yet unbelievably strong and brave hero of the Cuban Missile Crisis. Director Dominic Cooke managers to bring something unique to the old Political Drama genre. The use of Lighting, Production Design and Cinematography elevates this important and heartbreaking story along with its stellar cast. Cumberbatch is at the top of his game as Wynne who teaches us that there’s humanity at the centre of every conflict, no matter how big. Jessie Buckley, who plays Wynne’s wife, gives a heartbreaking performance particularly in a scene where she finally gets to see her husband again. The rest of the Cast consisting of Ninidze, Rachel Brosnahan and more turns in memorable and powerful performances.

Ironbark screens at Sundance on Fri, Jan. 24th at 6:30 PM at Eccles, Sat, Jan. 25th at 9 AM at Eccles, Sat, Jan. 25th at 6:15 PM at Grand Theatre, Mon, Jan. 27th at 12 PM at Sundance Resort, Sat, Feb. 1st at 8:30 PM at The MARC, and Sun, Feb. 2nd at Rose Wagner Center.