'I hope this will shine a light on Meath as a prime filming location'... Moynalty director's film makes world premiere at Galway Film Fleadh

A short film shot entirely across Meath and Westmeath, with post-production completed locally, will have its world premiere at the prestigious Galway Film Fleadh this year, with the schedule for the festival's Irish Shorts strand just announced.

Agus Ní Dúirt Muid Tada ("And We Said Nothing"), written and directed by Moynalty man Jonny Farrelly, and produced by Mark Coffey and Jenn Keane, was filmed on location in Enfield, Meath and Killucan, County Westmeath. It stars Tara Mae, Peace Olaniyi and Mark Coffey, with the narration provided by Athlone native, Leah Egan.

The film was shot and produced by Kells duo Jass Foley and Mark Smyth, making it a true Royal County affair.

The film is set during a violent political coup and follows a career soldier with a rigid sense of honour, who refuses to join her former friend's new regime and must protect a closely guarded secret as the revolution arrives at her front door in the form of an army tank. The film will screen as part of the Irish Shorts One programme at this year's festival on Wednesday 8th July at 12pm.

Speaking ahead of the premiere, writer-director Jonny Farrelly said: “It is great to be back filming again in my beloved County! We are very proud of this film and hope it will shine more of a light on Meath as a prime filming location!”

Producer Mark Coffey added: "We're incredibly grateful to the Galway Film Fleadh team for selecting 'Agus Ni Duirt Muid Tada', and giving this story a platform, one that feels increasingly urgent in the world we're living in today.

"As we see the rise of authoritarianism, division, and fear being used to turn communities, and even friends, against one another, this film is a reminder that no society, including Ireland, is immune to these dangers and we must stand up against intolerance before it takes hold.”

Jenn Keane said: “This script really spoke to me, because it feels really relevant and of its time. I was very excited to get involved in the film because in an ever changing world, I think now is our time to start making art that stands up for the world we believe in, of tolerance, kindness and ever progressing change.”

The film was made without funding support, relying entirely on the talent and facilities available in Meath and Westmeath, from cast and crew to the post-production houses that brought it to completion.

The film makers are now hoping to secure support to bring the film to festivals further afield, including the UK, the US, Australia and Japan and will appeal to local arts patrons in counties that would be interested to help fund the next steps.

Agus Ní Dúirt Muid Tada screens as part of Irish Shorts One at the Galway Film Fleadh. Full festival schedule and ticket details are available here.