Andrew Garfield Opens Up About the Movie That Always Brings Him to Tears

Andrew Garfield once opened up about the movie that never fails to move him to tears. Speaking to W Magazine, the actor revealed that In the Name of the Father has a deep emotional impact on him.

Already slightly emotional, he said, “I can’t get In The Name The Father out of my head.” Garfield described Daniel Day-Lewis’ performance as watching someone “banging their head against their brick wall over and over and over again.”

He added that the 1993 film is “compelling and upsetting and relatable and universal.”

In the Name of the Father is a biographical crime drama directed by Jim Sheridan, based on Gerry Conlon’s autobiography Proved Innocent.

The film tells the story of the Guildford Four, who were wrongly convicted for the 1974 Guildford pub bombings that killed four off-duty British soldiers and a civilian. Daniel Day-Lewis stars as Gerry Conlon, with Pete Postlethwaite, Emma Thompson, and Jim Sheridan contributing to the powerful ensemble.

The film was widely praised and performed well at the box office, earning $65 million against a $13 million budget.

It received seven Oscar nominations, including Best Actor for Day-Lewis, Best Supporting Actor for Postlethwaite, Best Supporting Actress for Thompson, Best Director, and Best Picture.

Despite its acclaim, the movie drew criticism for some historical inaccuracies. Key events and courtroom scenes were fictionalized, including interactions between Gerry Conlon and his father Giuseppe, and how solicitor Gareth Peirce was portrayed in court.

Some of those affected by the events, such as Anne Maguire of the Maguire Seven, voiced concerns about the film’s portrayal. In a 1994 interview, she expressed anger over the depiction of Conlon as a hero and criticized the filmmakers for not consulting her or her family, arguing that certain scenes did not match the historical record.

Despite these controversies, In the Name of the Father remains a powerful and emotional story that continues to resonate with audiences. Garfield’s admiration highlights the enduring impact of the film’s performances and storytelling.

Garfield’s choice shows how cinema can connect deeply with both performers and viewers, even when some details are dramatized. The film’s mix of injustice, resilience, and family dynamics makes it timeless. What do you think, does historical accuracy matter more than emotional impact in movies? Share your thoughts in the comments.