US premiere of Offaly film takes place at Californian festival this Saturday
Independent Irish film A Simple Killing will premiere at the 25th Newport Beach Film Festival in California this Saturday, October 19.
The short film, which was written by Mark Conway and directed by Jason Branagan, was funded by the FilmOffaly Short Film Award through the Offaly Arts Office.
The film was first premiered at the esteemed Raindance Film Festival in London on Friday, June 28 - and now has the opportunity to find a new audience on the opposite side of the globe.
It was shot on location at Bellefield House and Gardens in Shinrone at the end of January this year.
A Simple Killing follows two women who find each other at the best time, in the worst circumstances.
While trying to take her own life, Mai is interrupted when a young, pregnant woman in distress calls to her door in desperate need of help.
The film features actors Daphne Cheun as Mai, Claire Gavin as Anna, and Aidan O'Callaghan as Terry.
Made with a budget of €10,000 this gripping thriller showcases the best of Irish talent both in front and behind the camera.
The movie is the talented Mark Conway's inaugural screenplay to hit the production stage and was directed by Jason Branagan, renowned for his work on popular shows such as Eastenders and Fair City.
It's a co-production from Emer Durcan of Western Front Studios and debut producer Mark de Carreau of Five Line Films.
"A Simple Killing is a fantastic addition to the lineage of the FilmOffaly Short Film Award, the team has created a film that is really gripping with high tension throughout, and we’re excited to see the journey it’s about to go on," said Dr Sally O’Leary, Arts Officer, Offaly County Council Arts Office.
The Newport Beach Film Festival is proud to present two specially curated screenings to highlight Irish short films.
The first program, Irish A-Short-ment, which features A Simple Killing, will be held on Saturday, October 19.
"The Festival is extremely proud to showcase outstanding Irish Cinema, and we are honored to host North America’s most comprehensive collection of Irish films. This year’s program reflects Ireland's exceptionally strong creative talent,” said Gregg Schwenk, CEO of the Newport Beach Film Festival.