Ascendancy is a 1983 British drama film directed by Edward Bennett and starring Julie Covington and Ian Charleson. It tells the story of a woman who is a member of the British landowning 'Ascendancy' in Ireland during World War I. Gradually, she learns about the Irish independence movement, and becomes involved with it. Cast Julie Covington as Connie Wintour Ian Charleson as Lt. Ryder John Phillips as Wintour Susan Engel as Nurse Philip Locke as Dr Strickland Kieran Montague as Dr Kelson Rynagh O'Grady as Rose Philomena McDonagh as Mary Michael McKnight as Vesey Jeremy Sinden as Darcy Shay Gorman as Keir Awards The film was entered into the 33rd Berlin International Film Festival where it won the Golden Bear. References External links 1983 films British drama films 1980s English-language films 1983 drama films Golden Bear winners Films directed by Edward Bennett 1980s British films