Shocking events that changed Malta forever are chronicled in “Just Noise.” Set in 1919, the film seeks to draw attention to Britain’s violent clash against protestors. While it would make news in today’s 24/7 news cycles the same couldn’t be said for this painful chapter. Instead, this story serves as a reminder that history is littered with important moments that somehow became lost along the way.
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The film’s first trailer offers a glimpse into the scale filmmaker Davide Ferrario introduces to this project. In its haunting images, British military officials sit in spacious settings that dwarf their importance. Meanwhile, protesters are taking to the streets for a cause that is near and dear to their hearts—freedom. What unravels is a disturbing portrait of events that promises to educate as much as it enrages.
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‘Noise’ brings together two respected actors in roles which harken back to some of their darker portrayals. Harvey Keitel stars as General Hunter Blair, a man who makes the fateful decision to use military force. The actor is coming off a great 2019 which featured performances in “The Irishman” and “The Painted Bird.” Malcolm McDowell rounds out the duo as Colonel Saville, one of the military officials who were there when orders were carried out. Much like his counterpart, this accomplished actor remains in demand thanks to recent performances such as Rupert Murdoch in last year’s “Bombshell.”
Jean Pierre Magro’s screenplay delves into the emotional toll which comes from the events. While military officials operate with blistering statements, protestors speak of humanities. It’s a stark contrast that only heightens the dramatic tension across the narrative. Magro chooses the right place as he did with “The Darkness We Know.”
The film’s official synopsis:
Based on actual events, Just Noise presents the concealed account of how Maltese citizens fought for their independence against the British Crown in 1919. Immediately following the end of World War I, in a plea for their country’s independence, Maltese citizens from all different walks of life, united to lead an uprising against the British. “Just Noise” is Malta’s long-awaited triumph to share with the world, about how a small Mediterranean island took on the British Empire.
History becomes all too real as “Just Noise” premieres later this year.