Ascendancy is a 1983 British film. It tells the story of a woman who is a member of the British landowning 'Ascendancy' in Ireland during World War I. Gradually, she learns about the Irish independence movement, and becomes involved with it.
Acting
Julie Covington's brittle, fascinating descent into uncomfortable awareness.
Direction
Bennett's clinical eye makes privilege feel viscerally claustrophobic.
Director
Edward Bennett
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Julie Covington was primarily a singer (she originated 'Don't Cry for Me Argentina') and this was her rare dramatic lead.
Released during the Troubles, the film's ambivalence about British-Irish relations made it controversial — some critics found it too sympathetic to the Ascendancy, others not sympathetic enough.
IE
US
