"In the name of truth... In the name of justice... In the name of love."
In the Name of the Father - Movie Quotes
Memorable Quotes
I'm an innocent man. I spent 15 years in prison for something I didn't do. I watched my father die in a British prison for something he didn't do. And this government still says he's guilty. I want to tell them that until my father is proved innocent, until all the people involved in this case are proved innocent, until the guilty ones are brought to justice, I will fight on. In the name of my father and of the truth!
— Gerry Conlon
Context:
Delivered on the steps of the courthouse immediately after his conviction is overturned. Surrounded by press and supporters, Gerry expresses not just relief but a renewed sense of purpose, vowing to continue the campaign.
Meaning:
This is Gerry's triumphant and defiant victory speech, encapsulating the entire emotional and political thrust of the film. It signifies his complete transformation and dedication to his father's legacy, asserting that the legal victory is only the beginning of the fight for the whole truth.
What I remember most about my childhood is holding your hand. My wee hand in your big hand, and the smell of tobacco. I remember, I could smell the tobacco in the palm of your hand. When I want to feel happy, I try to remember the smell of tobacco.
— Gerry Conlon
Context:
Spoken to Giuseppe as he lies dying in the prison infirmary. It is the culmination of their reconciliation, where all anger and resentment have finally dissolved, leaving only love and memory.
Meaning:
This poignant quote reveals the deep, buried love Gerry has always had for his father, hidden beneath years of rebellion. It's a moment of pure, childlike vulnerability and a confession of the powerful, positive influence Giuseppe has always been in his life, symbolizing safety and happiness.
All they done was block out the light. They can't block out the light in here.
— Giuseppe Conlon
Context:
Giuseppe says this to Gerry in their prison cell, responding to Gerry's despair about spending the rest of his life there. It is a key moment of Giuseppe trying to impart his strength and perspective to his son.
Meaning:
This line, spoken as Giuseppe points to his head, encapsulates his philosophy of resilience. He acknowledges the physical reality of their imprisonment but asserts that their minds, spirits, and hope cannot be caged. It's a powerful statement about inner freedom and mental fortitude.
It's not the stairs that are killing your father. It's your lack of faith. [...] In yourself.
— Gareth Peirce
Context:
Gareth says this to Gerry during a prison visit, after Gerry complains about his father's deteriorating health being exacerbated by having to climb stairs for their legal meetings. It's a pivotal moment that helps spur Gerry into action.
Meaning:
Gareth challenges Gerry's cynical and self-pitying attitude, identifying it as the true destructive force. She astutely points out that his despair is a greater obstacle than his father's physical illness, urging him to believe in his own ability to fight for their cause.