From hurling to Hollywood

Roll out the red and white carpet! A dream team of former GAA stars are set to grace the silver screen in a new film about the 1916 rising. 

‘The Rising’ will be the first ever movie to tell the full story of the 1916 rising and has been in development since 2012.

The film, which is produced by filmmaker Kevin McCann, boasts a star-studded cast including Cork actress Fiona Shaw.

Shaw is best known for her roles as Petunia Dursley in the Harry Potter films, and as Marnie Stonebrook in the HBO series 'True Blood', as well as starring in 'Killing Eve' as MI6 boss Carolyn Martens.

Along with the cast, Mr McCann has announced that 15 GAA All-Ireland winners have officially signed up to appear in the movie in small cameo roles and walk on parts.

Amongst these are Cork GAA legends Larry Tompkins, Dinny Allen and Valerie Mulcahy who will all play some part in the film.

The film will also star Micheál Neeson, son of legendary Irish actor Liam Neeson, who will follow in his father’s footsteps in playing a young Michael Collins.

Speaking after the announcement, producer Kevin McCann said: “These GAA heroes are people with a strong connection to the spirit of Ireland and that is what the movie is all about.

“Imagine a movie scene where Patrick Pearse or Tom Clarke address a secret meeting of leaders played by Jack O’Shea, John Kiely, Valerie Mulcahy and Oisín McConville. The Irish around the world will grip their seats with pride.”

According to Mr McCann, it is hoped that the film will be released in the New Year, or 2022 at the latest.