I Am Traveller aired for the first time last night, putting Love/Hate star John Connors centre-stage as he ran a rule over life for the Travelling Community in 21st-Century Ireland – and it was absolutely compelling viewing.
If you missed it, you can catch it here on the RTÉ Player – or click here to check out the trailer.
Fair to say it really got people talking, and here’s what they were saying.
#IAmTraveller illustrates the difference between telling the story of a people, and allowing them to tell it themselves. Outstanding film.
— Philip O’Connor (@philipoconnor) March 25, 2016
Dislike someone purely based on fact that they are a Traveller? Quite possible that you’re not as nice as you think you are #iamtraveller
— Fiona Kenny (@FionaKenny1) March 24, 2016
Compelling, powerfully honest doc by @johnconnors1990 Can’t help but think he’ll help bring about change like @PantiBliss #iamtraveller
— Olga Cronin (@OlgaCronin) March 24, 2016
Heartbreaking hearing about Carrickmines but so impressed with @johnconnors1990 -an articulate,compassionate, empathic person #iamtraveller
— Katie Dawson (@katiedawson23) March 24, 2016
It’s rare to hear any men talk like this about their internal struggles. Bravo #iamtraveller
— Leslie Ann Horgan (@LeslieAnnHorgan) March 24, 2016
Crime journalist Paul Williams came in for some criticism…
#iamtraveller Paul Williams hasn’t asked a legitimate line of questioning in about 10 yrs
— Mark Malone (@soundmigration) March 24, 2016
While there were some of the old prejudices on show as well
Ultimately, though, the reaction was overwhelmingly positive ;a promising reaction that speaks not only to the talent of John Connors, but also hints that things might be changing for the better.
Here’s hoping.