Mick Clifford on the Healy-Rae documentary: A political soap opera turned Greek tragedy

Jerry Kennelly’s documentary turns the Healy-Rae family’s political saga into a compelling tale of loyalty, power and betrayal

TDs Michael and Danny Healy Rae pictured at the Healy Rae Bar, owned by Danny, during Michael's term as a Junior Minister in the Department of Agriculture. Picture: Jerry Kennelly/Local Story Films

The Healy-Raes would have fitted neatly into ancient Greece, with their heroes, homespun philosophy and unique twist on democracy, all taking shape in the shadow of great and mysterious mountains. 

But above all, as documented in The Healy-Raes: Blood, Sweat and Tears, through their tragedy, Michael takes the role of Icarus, flying too close to power.