About Dirty War (HBO)

"Dirty War" is a gripping HBO drama movie released in 2005. Produced by Liza Marshall (This Life) and directed by Daniel Percival (Invasion: Earth), it revolves around a group of London-based terrorists who detonate three dirty bombs in the heart of the city. The plot explores the events leading up to the attacks, the panic and chaos that ensues, and the efforts of the emergency services to deal with the situation.

Making / Production

The film was a collaboration between the BBC and HBO films, being aired on BBC One in the UK and HBO in the US. It delved into the grim reality of a potential nuclear attack, earning praise for its realistic portrayal of events. Filmed on location in London, it added a sense of authenticity to the narrative.

Actors

• Alastair Galbraith played Murray Corrigan, a firefighter on the brink of retirement when he’s caught up in the chaos. His performance was both powerful and gripping.
• Louise Delamere as Liz, a radiologic event officer who must manage the hastily organized response to the attack. She brought a sense of chaotic but determined humanity to the role.
• Helen Schlesinger played Marie, a mother of two caught up in the nuclear fallout. Her portrayal added a personal and heartfelt intensity to the events.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The dirty bombs used in the movie were realistically portrayed – based on designs that have been discovered in extremist publications or shared on radical websites.
• The movie was aired at a time when fear of terrorist attacks on the West was at a peak, creating a chilling resonance with current events.

Awards

Dirty War did not receive any major award nominations, yet it was highly acknowledged for its realism and the powerful performances of its main actors.

Quotes

• "This isn't a drill, it's a Dirty Bomb!" - Liz
• "What we feared the most has just happened." - Murray Corrigan

Music, Soundtrack

• The music for Dirty War was composed by Paul Conboy and Adrian Corker. Their score provides a bleak, chilling backdrop to the horrific events unfolding on screen.