A series of essays considering the nature and direction of Irish film and television. Topics cover the 'Roy Keane' affair, the first Irish-language soap opera, the New Irish Gangsters, Irish identity post September eleventh, images of Belfast in contemporary Irish cinema and female punishment in Irish history and culture. "Keeping it Real" appeals to those interested in Irish film, media and cultural studies. It reflects the innovative popular and academic desire to extend the notion of Irishness to include not only the inhabitants of the state but also the wider diaspora. Particularly focusing on the diaspora of Great Britain and North America the book questions issues of national identity and ethnicity. Films discussed include "Odd Man Out, The Boxer, Nothing Personal, I Went Down, Ryan's Daughter" and "Resurrection Man," The book also features an interview with actor Stephen Rea