Retaliation - Film Review

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Retaliation, originally titled Romans, is a powerful 2017 British drama directed by Ludwig and Paul Shammasian. It features Orlando Bloom in one of his most intense and emotionally raw performances, portraying a man haunted by the scars of childhood sexual abuse. The film tackles themes of trauma, revenge, faith and redemption, offering a deeply unsettling yet poignant exploration of the long-lasting effects of abuse and the complex paths toward healing.

The story revolves around Malcolm, nicknamed Malky (Bloom), a demolition worker. Malky specialises in tearing down old churches – a profession that becomes a potent metaphor for his internal conflict with faith and betrayal. The film begins with Malky leading a seemingly rough but ordinary life. He spends his days working with his demolition crew and his evenings drinking at the local pub. He shares a complicated relationship with his girlfriend Emma (Janet Montgomery), who struggles to understand the depth of his emotional turmoil.

Malky’s world begins to unravel when he encounters the priest, Jimmy (James Smillie) who sexually abused his as a child. This chance meeting re-opens old wounds, bringing suppressed memories to the surface and triggering a spiral of self-destructive behaviour. Malky becomes increasingly volatile, alienating those closest to him, including Emma and his mother (Anne Reid), who refuses to acknowledge the abuse or its devastating impact on her son.

As Malky grapples with his trauma, he contemplates seeking revenge against his abuser. His journey is marked by moments of profound anguish, rage and confusion as he struggles to reconcile his pain with his desire for justice. The film builds toward a climactic confrontation between Malky and Jimmy, forcing him to make a choice between vengeance and the possibility of healing.

At its core, Retaliation is a study of trauma and its enduring consequences. Malky’s abuse as a child left him emotionally scarred, affecting every aspect of his life. The film portrays how trauma manifests in destructive ways, from his violent outbursts to his inability to form healthy relationships. His job demolishing churches serves as a symbolic act of rebellion against the institution that failed to protect him, but it also highlights his inability to move forward, as he remains trapped in a cycle of anger and pain.

The film explores the intersection of faith and betrayal, particularly the devastating impact of being betrayed by a trusted figure within a religious institution. Malky’s work tearing down churches mirrors his internal struggle with the concept of faith. He feels abandoned by God and betrayed by the very institution meant to provide guidance and protection. This tension is further amplified by his strained relationship with his mother, who represents blind faith and denial, refusing to confront the reality of Malky’s abuse.

Retaliation challenges traditional notions of masculinity by presenting a male protagonist who is deeply vulnerable. Malky’s outward toughness and aggression mask a profound sense of shame and helplessness. The film delves into the toxic effects of societal expectations of masculinity, which discourage men from expressing vulnerability or seeking help. Malky’s journey is as much about reclaiming his sense of self as it is about confronting his abuser.

The tension between revenge and forgiveness is a central theme in Retaliation. Malky’s initial instinct is to seek vengeance, believing it will provide closure. However, as the film progresses, it becomes clear that revenge cannot undo the past or heal his wounds. The film leaves the audience questioning whether true healing is possible without forgiveness, both of others and oneself.

Malky (Orlando Bloom): Orlando Bloom delivers a career-defining performance as Malky, portraying the character’s emotional and physical torment with unflinching honesty. Malky is a man of contradictions: tough yet deeply wounded, angry yet yearning for connection. Bloom’s portrayal captures the complexity of a man grappling with his past while trying to navigate his present. His physical transformation for the role, including his muscular build and shaved head, underscores Malky’s outward toughness, which contrasts sharply with his inner vulnerability.



Emma (Janet Montgomery): Emma is Malky’s girlfriend and one of the few people who genuinely cares for him. However, their relationship is strained by Malky’s inability to open up about his trauma. Emma represents a potential source of stability and healing, but Malky’s self-destructive tendencies push her away. Janet Montgomery delivers a nuanced performance, capturing Emma’s frustration and compassion.

Malky’s Mother (Anne Reid): Malky’s mother embodies denial and complicity. Her refusal to acknowledge Malky’s abuse adds another layer of pain to his already fractured psyche. She clings to her faith and the image of the Church as infallible, even at the expense of her son’s well-being. Anne Reid’s performance is subtle yet impactful, highlighting the generational and cultural factors that contribute to her denial.

Jimmy, The Priest (James Smillie): The priest is a chilling figure, representing both the personal and institutional betrayal Malky has endured. His presence in the film is minimal but powerful, serving as the catalyst for Malky’s emotional unravelling. The priest’s calm demeanour contrasts sharply with the devastation he has caused, making him an unsettling antagonist.

The film’s visual style is steeped in symbolism, particularly through its use of the church as a setting. The crumbling churches Malky demolishes serve as a metaphor for his broken faith and the collapse of his trust in authority. The stark, industrial landscapes reflect Malky’s inner desolation, while the dimly lit interiors create an atmosphere of suffocating tension.

The sound design plays a crucial role in conveying Malky’s emotional state. The use of ambient noise, such as the clang of demolition equipment, mirrors the chaos in his mind. Moments of silence are equally powerful, emphasising Malky’s isolation and the weight of his trauma.

The film relies heavily on its performances to drive the narrative. Orlando Bloom’s portrayal of Malky is raw and unflinching, capturing the character’s pain and anger with visceral intensity. The supporting cast complements his performance, creating a deeply immersive and emotionally charged experience.

Retaliation received praise for its unflinching portrayal of trauma and Orlando Bloom’s performance. Critics lauded the film’s willingness to tackle difficult subject matter with honesty and sensitivity. However, some reviewers noted that the film’s bleak tone and graphic content might be too intense for some audiences.

Many critics highlighted Bloom’s transformative performance as the film’s standout element. His ability to convey Malky’s inner turmoil earned him widespread acclaim. The Shammasian brother’s direction was also praised for its gritty realism and atmospheric storytelling.

Some critics felt that the film’s heavy-handed symbolism and relentless bleakness detracted from its overall impact. Others argued that the narrative’s focus on Malky’s pain left little room for exploring broader themes or offering a sense of hope.

Retaliation is a deeply affecting and thought-provoking film that explores the long-lasting impact of abuse and the complex journey toward healing. Through its unflinching portrayal of trauma, the film sheds light on issues often shrouded in silence and stigma. Orlando Bloom’s raw and transformative performance anchors the narrative, making Malky’s journey both harrowing and compelling. While its bleak tone and graphic content may not be for everyone, Retaliation stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the difficult path toward redemption.

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