Lights, camera… Damian O’Callaghan (right) and Paul FitzSimons on location at Ross Castle
AN exciting new feature film, shot entirely in Killarney, will premier at the Kerry Film Festival which will run from October 21-25.
Directed by Killarney’s Damian O’Callaghan who also co-wrote the script with talented Paul FitzSimons from Kildare, The Gift stars the excellent Alan Devine (Veronica Guerin, King Arthur), Úna Kavanagh (Garage) and Dawn Bradfield (Moone Boy) as well as comedian Brendan Grace in his first dramatic role.
It tells the touching story of a man bereft a year after losing his wife to cancer who has decided to end his own life but everyday living gets in the way.
He has to factor in considerations such as a family who would miss him, a demanding landlord and a class of uncontrollable students.
Dramatic footage was captured at local locations like the Gap of Dunloe, Ladies View and Torc Waterfall and a special permit was granted by the National Parks and Wildlife Service to allow scenes to be shot at Ross Castle.
Super scenes were also captured in St Mary’s Cathedral after permission was obtained from parish administrator Fr Kieran O’Brien.
Filming in Killarney was ongoing six days a week for a month and a cast and crew of over 100 people were involved in the project.
The Gift, which will be the festival’s opening feature film, will be screened on Thursday, October 22 at Killarney Cinema (8.30pm).
The writer, director and some cast members will attend and there will be a questions and answers session after the screening.
Tickets can be booked on www.kerryfilmfestival.com or by calling 066-7129934.
It will be a night to remember, in particular, for Killarney man Damian O’Callaghan whose short film Bouncers was part of last year’s festival.