Why indeed? Maybe because Veronica Guerin was a successful journalist with a nice happy family in a nice cosy bungalow home with a computer and fireplace, luxuries which so many of the Irish have never tasted. Maybe because she was rash and had balls too big, which went poking into other people's business. And maybe she was hot on the heels of Dublin's druglord, who believed he had too much to lose should Guerin run her little expose on him.
Veronica Guerin, the story of an investigative journalist who was actually trained in accountacy - a skill which added her aforementioned work, is an inspiration to all investigative journalists out there. Her merciless search for justice led her face to face with gangsters and murderers and danger - lots of it. Danger not only to herself, but to her young son and loving husband. Yet Guerin has something in common with someone recently made very popular by a Vendetta. V, V for Vendetta. "Ideas are bullet-proof", and in Guerin's case, it was her undaunting attitude and courage that was bullet-proof, even if she was not.
A fine biopic - Veronica Guerin is well-paced and follows the traditional recipe of inspirational stories. Blanchett is immaculate in her portrayal of the proud and spunky journalist who faces the dilemma of pursuing her commitment to "the greater good" (which journalist are supposed to serve) or ensuring her and her family's safety. Ultimately, Guerin's choice is made for her, because she is so involved that she becomes only a small part of the bigger picture, a picture made complete only by her sacrifice. Her death is the catalyst to Ireland's salvation. It is sad that some people are defined by and in their death.
Veronica Guerin rates 7.0 out of 10.
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