Loach blasts English critics of War of Independence film

Director Ken Loach bit back at English critics who have attacked The Wind that Shakes the Barley for being anti-British at the film's gala premiere at the Cork Omniplex last night.

The movie, which is based around the War of Independence, won the prestigious Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this month.

"The reactions have been from a few right-wing journalists who haven't seen the film," he said. "It's so ridiculous that it's not worth taking seriously."

"They're like a lot of noisy dogs barking in the yard. You just have to shut the door and forget they're there."

Cork actors Cilliam Murphy and Orla Fitzgerald were joined by fellow stars Padraig Delaney and Liam Cunningham for last night's premiere, which was also attended by 600 guests.

The film goes on general release on Friday.