Row over new film on IRA Maze prison escape

A row has erupted over a new film about the IRA breakout from the Maze prison more than 30 years ago.

The TUV has accused the film industry of romanticising Republican terrorism - while Sinn Féin says it's a story that should be told.

The film ‘Maze’ depicts how Larry Marley - a member of the Provisional IRA - tries to organise the prisoners’ escape plan in 1983.

One prison officer James Ferris died of a heart attack after being stabbed during the break-out, while two other warders were shot.

The movie is not even in the cinemas yet, but it's already stirring controversy.

TUV councillor Timothy Gaston said: “After watching the trailer I am deeply concerned that the film is going to show a one-sided, very biased account of the Maze break-out.

“There is no account at all given in the trailer by the prison officers who served us during the Troubles.”

Sinn Féin’s Alex Maskey MLA said: “At the end of the day a prison escape is of huge human interest worldwide so I have no doubt people will go and watch the film.

“I would recommend to people, go and watch it and make your judgement - I would hope it wouldn’t glorify anything which is inappropriate.”

‘Maze’ will undoubtedly divide opinion and cause controversy, it just remains to be seen how that debate will unfold.

The film will be in cinemas next month.