A BRAND NEW documentary about Irish revolutionary hero Michael Collins is set for release this week, and it looks fantastic.
It will explore the key events and influences of his formative years and uncovers a deeper, seldom heard story of a man so central to the blossoming of Ireland as a republic.
The documentary is called 'The Young Fella', and has fittingly been produced in Co. Cork, Collins' home county.
Much has been said about Irish Revolutionary hero, Michael Collins’ life but the focus is nearly always on his later years. Biographies of 'The Big Fella' tend to focus heavily on the revolutionary activity that dominated his final decade. But what about his younger years?
Collins was an Irish revolutionary, soldier, and politician who was a leading figure in the early-20th-century Irish struggle for independence before his assassination in 1922.
The documentary itself focuses on six modern day secondary school students who go on a journey discovering the history of Irish revolution and the story of Collins.
History is brought to life and Collins story is told through the students intrigue as they visit local sites, meet with local historians and even sit the 1906 Civil Service Exam that Collins passed.
They learn about his day to day life, his school life, his friends and family and what influenced his early political beliefs. Collins teenage years are put into perspective as they unveil the story of a normal, rural West Cork boy as he develops into a young man with an extraordinary life ahead of him.
Michael Collins was just sixteen when he left Clonakilty for London, the same age as these students who reflect on life now and life then, helping to get a sense of what life was like for ‘The Young Fella’.
The documentary will premiere on the Michael Collins House Youtube channel at 8pm on Friday April 16, coincide with the 100 year anniversary of the burning of Michael Collins childhood home by members of the British Army in 1921.
"His legacy continues today, and this wonderful film offers a unique insight into the early years which shaped his destiny. A great achievement," said Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley.
See More: Documentary, Irish History, Michael Collins
