Fans of feature films made in Ireland take note: a film dedicated entirely to Irish pirate Grace O’Malley is currently in development. Irish writer-director Kirsten Sheridan is in charge of the project. An eagerly-awaited film, which should reveal to the world the face of one of the greatest pirates Ireland has ever known!
Do you know Grace O’Malley? Irish women know her well. First and foremost for her epic adventures… but also for her unfailing courage, strength and resilience.
For Grace O’Malley, a 16th-century Irish pirate, made her mark in a man’s world, at a time when women were deprived of any spirit of adventure.
One of a kind, she made even the greatest leaders of her time tremble… Her insolence, coupled with an almost provocative intelligence, made her a true legend of maritime history.
So a film was more than necessary to reveal to the world the fascinating destiny of this exceptional Irishwoman.
Kirsten Sheridan (daughter of director Jim Sheridan), in charge of the film, is said to have decided to base herself on Anne Chambers’ book“Grace O’Malley and The Biography of Ireland’s Pirate Queen“. An absolutely fascinating documented work, it traces the pirate’s destiny, with its major episodes and most memorable moments.
But be warned: the film won’t focus on the whole of Grace O’Malley’s life. It will remain focused on the pirate’s historical and proven encounter with Queen Elizabeth I.
Here’s a preview of the film’s pitch:
When her youngest son is taken prisoner, Grace O’Malley sails to the Thames to confront Queen Elizabeth directly. Over the course of just one week, these leaders of two warring nations question each other’s identities, pique each other’s feelings, earn each other’s respect and come together as equals to define not only their nations, but their innermost selves.
The film takes a modern, provocative approach to the subject, raising questions about women’s place in society, the development of their sexuality, and their freedom to seize power.
The film’s production company, Producers Wild Atlantic Pictures, added:
The project will not only depict Grace’s legendary exploits, but will also delve into her complex personal journey as a leader, mother and survivor.
As for the director, she said it was a deeply passionate project:
Every Irish woman knows the story of Grace O’Malley. It’s a story of power, resilience and rebellion. She defies gender norms, controls her own destiny and holds the leg of the most powerful woman in history.
A film that’s sure to generate a lot of enthusiasm! It will be supported by Screen Ireland, and produced by Wild Atlantic Pictures in collaboration with Los Angeles-based Retaintainment Ventures.
The first images will be shot as early as 2026… No release date has yet been announced.
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