review for Beloved Enemy on AllMovie

Beloved Enemy is a soap opera, and if considered on that level it is a very satisfying one. There are star-crossed lovers, with one fated to come to an unhappy end before their love can really and truly blossom. There are valor and heroism and obstacles to overcome, and these are employed in the time-honored fashion with rewarding results. And perhaps if Enemy had been set in a fictional country, it could simply be considered an enjoyable weepie. The problem is that it is instead set in Ireland, during the period of time leading to the separation of Ireland from England. This setting alone means that it is likely to arouse strong feelings in viewers with an interest in Irish history; the fact that the lead character is very loosely based on Irish leader Michael Collins only makes those feelings stronger. And because Enemy ultimately trivializes the bloody conflict and Collins by implying that the resolution of the issue came about simply so that two lovebirds could feather a nest together, many viewers will take offense at it and feel that it exploits a great tragedy. However, those who are able to look at it as simply a movie should find a great deal to enjoy, from the sumptuous production to the lovely performances of Merle Oberon and Brian Aherne to the alternately flowery and powerful dialogue. Forget about it as history, and try to look at it as a cinematic bon bon.