The film chronicles the life and career of Michael Collins (played by Liam Neeson), an Irish revolutionary leader who played a key role in the Irish War of Independence against British rule in the early 20th century.
The story begins with Collins joining the Irish Republican Brotherhood (IRB) and becoming involved in the Irish nationalist movement, which seeks to achieve independence from British rule through armed struggle. Collins quickly rises through the ranks and becomes a trusted lieutenant to the movement’s leader, Éamon de Valera (played by Alan Rickman).
As tensions between the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and British forces escalate, Collins becomes the chief strategist and director of intelligence for the IRA. He organizes a guerrilla campaign against British targets, including assassinations of key British officials and intelligence gathering operations.
Collins also becomes involved in negotiations with British authorities to broker a peace agreement known as the Anglo-Irish Treaty. The treaty establishes the Irish Free State as a self-governing dominion within the British Commonwealth, but it also creates a divide within the Irish nationalist movement, with some supporting the treaty and others opposing it.
In the aftermath of the treaty’s signing, Collins becomes the head of the provisional government of the Irish Free State and serves as its Minister for Finance. However, tensions between pro- and anti-treaty factions erupt into a civil war that divides the country.
In the climax of the film, Collins is assassinated by anti-treaty forces in an ambush in County Cork. His death marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in Irish history.
The film concludes with Collins’ funeral, where thousands of mourners gather to pay their respects to the fallen leader. Despite his controversial legacy and the unresolved issues surrounding the Irish struggle for independence, Collins is remembered as a hero and martyr in the fight for Irish freedom.
“Michael Collins” is praised for its historical accuracy, powerful performances, and gripping storytelling. It offers a compelling portrayal of one of Ireland’s most influential and enigmatic figures, shedding light on the complexities of revolution, politics, and nation-building.