robertburns-27316

Red Rose (2004)

New Approach to the Legend Robert Burns

I saw the film and thought the story brought a new image to the poet Robert Burns. It shows how he was put down by the establishment of the 1790's who were afraid of the political opinions he expressed on freedom, slavery and the rights of man in his poetry. It also explains how his demise was manipulated by the aristocracy who regarded his ideas as dangerous. His support of the French Revolution became known when he sent impounded Cannons to France from the famous shipwreck of the Rosamund during his work for the Scottish coastal tax authority. As the first film to be made about Robert Burns in 50 years, it is an excellent factual record of his life which has hitherto been lost in the round of Burns Suppers, Shortbread tins and Whisky covers. The script is cleverly woven in that it shows how he was lambasted by the Church and yet loved by his many female fans. Excellent record for Burns enthusiasts, who wont hear this story at Burns Suppers that's for sure. It is a brave attempt at correcting the myths about the man. Well Done Cutty Sark.