202. The 8th; movie review

 

 

THE 8TH

Cert 12A

95 mins

BBFC advice: Contains abortion theme, sexual violence references, infrequent strong language

The decision to have an abortion is not an easy one - even those who support its legality would say that it is likely to be associated with trauma.

But there are myriad reasons why a woman would deem it necessary after becoming pregnant and that is why, in England, Scotland and Wales, it became legal in 1967.

Not least, this prevented back-street practitioners from injuring those who turned to them in desperation.

Ireland, where religion is practised with greater zeal, outlawed abortion in the early 80s with the Eighth Amendment.

Maeve O’Boyle, Lucy Kennedy, and Aideen Kane's The 8th traces the campaign to remove this constitutional ban. 

Their endeavour demonstrates rare defiance in a country whose citizens have previously been slavish followers of the Catholic Church.

Up against them are still those who believe that life begins at conception and their voices are certainly heard during this documentary.

However, it is no doubt which side the filmmakers are supporting - with their main focus the veteran women's right campaigner Ailbhe Smyth, a brilliant and passionate speaker.

She is the bedrock of the movie, rallying support at every opportunity, overcoming chronic back pain which dogs her every step.

Despite being 'over 70', she is desperate to create a legacy of progress and safety for her daughters and granddaughters.

Meanwhile, backing comes from a variety of fervent, intelligent women who will not be stopped by centuries-old arguments.

Tragically, their trump cards are personified by the women who have suffered or even died because Ireland refused to allow abortion.

These incidents have prompted action by clinicians who explain the dangers of back-street terminations and going ahead with pregnancies which may risk the health of mothers.

It is clear The 8th has an agenda but it is more thoughtful than many campaigning documentaries and gives a clear explanation of the pros and cons of repeal.

It also alights upon opposition spokespeople who are compelling without brow-beating and, on the whole, it presents a case which is and was undeniable.

This documentary is a powerful record of a campaign led by people rather than politicians.

Reasons to watch: A powerful record of a public campaign

Reasons to avoid: Is a tad repetitive

Laughs: None

Jumps: None

Vomit: None

Nudity: None 

Overall rating: 7.5/10

Did you know? According to Irish government figures, the number of abortions which took place in Ireland went from 32 in 2018 to 6,666 in 2019.

The final word. Maeve O’Boyle, Lucy Kennedy, and Aideen Kane: "When the government called a referendum to repeal the 8th amendment, we knew this was one of the most important stories of our generation. Our goal was to document this defining moment in the context of Ireland’s historic treatment of women." 

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