(Docu – Ireland)
By JOHN ANDERSON
A Scannain Inbhear Teoranta presentation in association with Underground Films, Riverside Television and TG4 with the participation of the Irish Film Board. (International sales: Cinetic Media, New York.) Produced by Rachel Lysaght, Risteard O Domhnaill. Directed by Risteard O Domhnaill.
With: Pat O’Donnell, Maura Harrington, Willie Corduff, Mary Corduff.
What do people do, when the law prevents them from protecting themselves? That’s the question at the heart of “The Pipe,” a stirring, character-rich docu from Irish helmer Risteard O Domhnaill about Shell vs. Rossport, Ireland, where the oil company decided to run a gas line, and the community decided otherwise. The Irish don’t harbor a lot of affection toward things British, but those behind “The Pipe” might think fondly of BP, whose recent gulf disaster will add currency and urgency to this charismatic David-Goliath tale. Look for some theatrical gas and a secure on-air berth.