I'm surprised this movie didn't do better in theatres. The movie revolves around a fictional retelling of the Northern Ireland peace treaty. It tells the tale of the real life leaders Martin McGuiness and Ian Paisley finding some common ground after years of hatred. The movie doesn't choose sides in the conflict but presents puts the war in perspective: honoring the memory of your ancestors by continuing the conflict or giving your descendants hope by finding peace. This is an excellent portrayal of two men who must look past themselves and their prejudices to build a peaceful future.

I don't know much about Martin McGuiness but if what a previous reviewer claims about the two protagonists being so faithful to their subjects is true, I now have a better idea, as I'm a big fan of Colm Meany. The dialogue between the men is necessarily historic conjecture, but I would well agree that it was McGuiness who broke the ice and made the necessary concessions, and who better than Colm to pull it off. If snakes ever invade the Emerald Isle, 'twill be himself that charms them out. (Mind you, I'm not nominating him for sainthood!)

"The Journey" offers a highly speculative version of the conversation that put an end to the conflict in Northern Ireland that has come to be known as the Troubles.Actors Timothy Spall and Colm Meany both portray their roles powerfully. Their verbal sparring and give-and-take maneuverings make for a compelling performance.

Fictionalised account of a friendship that became very real. A tale of hope.I like what's been done here. In essence it's an allegory of hope. The Troubles (as they're known) were born out of cruelty/bigotry & in turn these things only flamed fires. Monumental changes were needed & were achieved. However, a fine balancing act is still ongoing & needed to maintain peace & this we mustn't forget. I believe The Journey explores the reality of these things without confrontation as it is essentially, as previously mentioned, about hope & not the troubles head on.The acting is excellent (except for the driver's dodgy generic Scottish accent which turned out to be fake, nevertheless, it was still awful).This film deserves a lot more praise than it is actually getting. I think folk are missing the point of it - what it's actually about & how it has been done.This is a film about hope & not so much about The Troubles in the North & not even about the friendship between Martin & Ian; that burgeoning friendship is simply the backdrop that this tale about hope is set on.