We all watch films where you come across a villain who you truly loath and are disgusted by, but at the end of the film you can't help end up admiring the actor for delivering such a powerful and convincing performance. Having said that, what happens though when it comes to the end of the film and it wasn't an act, this particular character is the real deal and you've been watching and listening to this monster? Well last night I rented "Deliver Us from Evil" and ended up experiencing it first-hand. Never before have I hated an individual so much, especially one I didn't even know. The person I'm referring to is Father Oliver O'Grady who for a period of 30 years sexually abused numerous children whilst the Catholic Church protected this dangerous pedophile.

"Deliver Us from Evil" is a shocking yet truly outstanding documentary by filmmaker Amy Berg who investigates the life of O'Grady and the lengths the Catholic Church went in order to protect him. Featuring interviews with families and victims, the viewer is given a startling and shocking eye opener to the suffering of sexual abuse victims and the families involved. At the same time though you will find yourself witnessing one on one interviews with O'Grady himself, during which he recounts the numerous sexual acts he's performed on children as young as 9 years, male and female.

I personally found "Deliver Us from Evil" to be a very informative, moving and thought provoking documentary, it's one of those that truly highlight the current state of human morals world-wide. Yes I know that it's obvious to most that acts discussed in this film are morally wrong but it also explores other aspects such as deceit and disregard for human rights, it's coverage of these topics is excellent and essential. I highly recommend you give this documentary a watch and encourage others to do so.

[video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scW90Q6Z_OM&feature=related 300x300]

As we're on the topic of morally based cinematic experiences I have another film that I wish to discuss, BAFTA winning film by Shane Meadows, "This is England". Set in the beginning of 80s when tight bright clothing was a given, hair styles often rivaled that of a Wookie's and England was suffering under the rule of then Prime Minister, the Iron Lady "Thatcher", we are given front row seats to the story of 11 year old misfit, Shaun (Thomas Turgoose). Having recently experienced the loss of his father we explore his change from a young, mournful social outcast to an anger driven thug who is embraced by a group of local skin-heads.

Having dealt with social ridicule and bullying on a regular basis Shaun quickly embraces the acceptance given to him by his new found friends. However things do not remain as they are, as the once joyous, fun-loving and carefree group is divided by the return of Combo (Steven Graham, Gangs of New York, Snatch), an old gang member who represents the more commonly recognized pro-Nazi Skinheads. From this point the film takes a U-turn and begins exploring the harsh realities surrounding racism through extreme nationalism all through the eyes of an 11year old craving acceptance.

Shane Meadow's has truly crafted a wonderful masterpiece, bringing together an all too familiar picture of racism and hatred but on a more recognizable level than that of other racially based storylines such as those covering American prejudice towards Muslims and Arabs in general. "This is England" explores the reasons why and how racism and hate on such extreme levels is ever reached by clearly painting an all round view from both sides of the fence. Even though this is a period piece set in the UK and may not be all that familiar to those out of the UK, the messages it delivers are universal and should be taken in by all.

Through a combination of gritty visuals, a feeling of great realism and astounding performances all round, especially those of new comer Thomas Turgoose and British actor Stephen Graham, "This is England" leaves the viewer truly overwhelmed by its well crafted story. Unfortunately this film isn't available in South Africa at present (I had to have it sent from overseas), but as soon as it is make an effort to watch it.

[video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H0jkv2bRFgQ 300x300]