IMDb 6.8 2008 HD

Fifty Dead Men Walking

Fifty Dead Men Walking

2008
Action Thriller
117 min R Canada
6.319 / 10
6.8 IMDB

It's 1989, and in a Belfast torn apart by conflict and terrorism, petty criminal Marty McGartland is recruited by the British police to infiltrate the IRA. Guided by…

Personnel // Cast & Crew

Director Kari Skogland / Scott Bunce
Starring
Ben Kingsley / Jim Sturgess / Kevin Zegers / Natalie Press / Rose McGowan / Tom Collins / William Houston / Michael McElhatton

How Viewers Describe This Film

Common themes and sentiments

tense gripping authentic harrowing compelling tense suspenseful dramatic intense realistic gritty unsettling

Reviews

G
Genevieve Dubois
May 2, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

The true story underpinning 'Fifty Dead Men Walking' provides a potent foundation for a tense thriller. Jim Sturgess effectively conveys the isolation and fear of Marty McGartland, an operative embedded deep within the IRA. Ben Kingsley offers a…

J
Julian Thorne
May 2, 2026
4.5 / 5
4.5

A visceral and often harrowing account, 'Fifty Dead Men Walking' stands out for its unflinching portrayal of the IRA informant's plight. Jim Sturgess is outstanding, conveying the immense psychological burden of his character’s double life. Ben Kingsley’s performance…

P
Phoebe Carmichael
May 2, 2026
3.0 / 5
3.0

This is a solid, if not groundbreaking, thriller based on a remarkable true story. Jim Sturgess navigates the complex role of an informant with a commendable blend of vulnerability and grit. Ben Kingsley lends his usual gravitas to…

M
Marcus Bellweather
May 2, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

A gripping chronicle of espionage and survival, 'Fifty Dead Men Walking' is anchored by a strong turn from Jim Sturgess. He embodies the precariousness of Marty McGartland’s position with convincing desperation. Ben Kingsley is suitably stoic, guiding the…

E
Eleanor Vance
May 2, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

Jim Sturgess delivers a compelling performance as Marty McGartland, a young man thrust into the treacherous world of IRA infiltration. Ben Kingsley, as his handler Fergus, provides a steady, authoritative presence. The film effectively captures the palpable tension…

FAQs

'Fifty Dead Men Walking' delves into the perilous world of espionage and the profound personal cost of infiltration. Key themes include loyalty and betrayal, as individuals navigate complex allegiances in a conflict zone. The film also examines the psychological impact of living a double life and the moral compromises required for survival. The struggle for identity under duress is central, as is the stark reality of terrorism and counter-terrorism efforts.