Irish American actor Aidan Quinn has said Michael Collins would not be happy with modern Irish politicians.

Quinn, who was raised in both Dublin and Offaly, starred in the 1996 film about the Irish icon starring Liam Neeson.  The film is being re-released to mark the 1916 Centenary.

"A part of him would be proud and part of him would be dismayed and pissed off, like the rest of us," said Quinn, who was speaking at an event celebrating the 20th anniversary of the film as part of the Audi Dublin International Film Festival.

Quinn, played republican politician Harry Boland in the film, admitted he's not as familiar with Irish politics as he used to be, since he spends most of his time in the United States, the Irish Independent reported.

‘Michael Collins’ director Neil Jordan, who joined the cast and crew members gathered to celebrate the anniversary of the film, agreed that the legendary leader would not be a fan of contemporary politicians.

"I think it's lucky he's not around actually. The landscape has changed so much really," said the Sligo native.

Jordan said he was fond of People Before Profit Alliance candidate Richard Boyd Barrett, but added: "He's not Michael Collins either.”

Actor Alan Rickman, who died last month at 69 after a battle with cancer, played Eamon DeValera in the film, which will be released on Blu Ray for the first time next month. Quinn said Rickman’s Irish roots were very important to him.

"Year's after filming, I met [Alan] in Whelan's at a concert and I realised he had a huge affinity for all things Irish that he loved.

"He was a lovely man and an incredible talent and he'll be missed."

Speaking of the late film star, Jordan said both the film and playing DeValera on screen were very important to Rickman.

The Audi Dublin International Film Festival runs until February 28.