The Treaty

Main Plot

"The Treaty," directed by Jonathan Lewis, is a historical drama that delves into the intense negotiations leading to the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921. The film focuses on the high-stakes political maneuvering between the British government and Irish representatives. As the Irish delegation, led by Michael Collins and Arthur Griffith, engages in tense discussions with British officials, the film captures the profound ideological divides and personal sacrifices involved. The narrative highlights the pressure on both sides to reach an agreement that could end the Irish War of Independence while addressing the contentious issues of sovereignty and partition. The film culminates in the signing of the treaty, setting the stage for future conflict and shaping the course of Irish history.

Characters

• Brendan Gleeson portrays Michael Collins, a key figure negotiating the Anglo-Irish Treaty, which aimed to end the Irish War of Independence and establish the Irish Free State.
• Patrick Condren portrays Michael Collins, a key figure negotiating the Anglo-Irish Treaty, balancing political pressures and personal convictions in the quest for Irish independence.
• Ian Bannen portrays David Lloyd George, the British Prime Minister, who plays a crucial role in negotiating the Anglo-Irish Treaty with Irish leaders.

Ending Explained

"The Treaty," directed by Jonathan Lewis, concludes with the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty in December 1921, a pivotal moment in Irish history. The film portrays the intense negotiations between the British government and the Irish delegation, led by Michael Collins and Arthur Griffith. As the deadline looms, the Irish negotiators face immense pressure to secure a deal that would grant Ireland a measure of independence while remaining within the British Empire as a dominion. The climax of the film centers on the final, fraught discussions and the eventual decision to sign the treaty. Michael Collins, despite his reservations and the potential for civil strife, ultimately agrees to the terms, believing it to be the best possible compromise to end the conflict and lay the groundwork for future sovereignty. The treaty's signing is depicted as a bittersweet victory, marking the end of the War of Independence but sowing the seeds for the Irish Civil War due to the deep divisions it causes within the Irish nationalist movement. The film closes on this note of uneasy resolution, highlighting both the achievement and the impending turmoil.