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THE OUTRUN on Netflix Mar 18

THE OUTRUN coming to Netflix Mar 18

THE OUTRUN coming to Netflix Mar 18

A quiet revolution is happening on Netflix this March as Nora Fingscheidt’s stunning adaptation of Amy Liptrot’s 2016 novel THE OUTRUN makes its streaming debut. This critically acclaimed indie film, Certified Fresh on RottenTomatoes, will arrive on Netflix in both the UK and US through different pay-1 streaming deals, marking its first appearance on any streaming platform following its theatrical run.

Saoirse Ronan delivers what many critics call a career-defining performance as Rona, a 29-year-old returning to her childhood home in the Orkney Islands after a decade in London. The film’s emotional resonance is heightened by excellent supporting turns from Saskia Reeves, Stephen Dillane, Lauren Lyle, and Paapa Essiedu. As MovieWeb’s Julian Roman noted, “Saoirse Ronan stuns as a shattered alcoholic trying to rebuild her life on a remote Scottish island. THE OUTRUN chronicles a disturbing descent to rock bottom and the heartbreaking climb to sobriety.”

The film’s journey to Netflix showcases the complex landscape of modern film distribution. In the US, where Sony Pictures Classics holds distribution rights, the film will stream for 18 months beginning March 18th, 2025, part of Netflix’s ongoing first-window deal with Sony.

More Saoirse Ronan

Ronan shines in ELLE magazine feature
Ronan wins big at London Critics’ Circle Film Awards
THE OUTRUN now on Prime
Saoirse Ronan stars in the new film BLITZ

Irish Film

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THE HISTORY OF SOUND update

Mescal in THE HISTORY OF SOUND

Mescal in THE HISTORY OF SOUND

In a groundbreaking acquisition, streaming platform Mubi has secured rights to THE HISTORY OF SOUND, the highly anticipated gay First World War romance starring Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor, with theatrical release plans confirmed for late 2025. The film, which wrapped production earlier this year, chronicles the journey of two young men, Lionel (Mescal) and David (O’Connor), who embark on a mission to record the voices and music of Americans against the backdrop of WWI, ultimately falling in love along the way.

Director Oliver Hermanus describes THE HISTORY OF SOUND as a “true passion project” that has occupied five years of his life alongside the film’s stars. “I could not be more thrilled to have found partners in MUBI in North America and Focus and UPI internationally,” Hermanus told Variety, adding that “they champion the cinema I love.” The director previously revealed to Gay Times that Mescal and O’Connor were “on fire” during filming, noting their friendship and genuine investment in the project: “They love and care about THE HISTORY OF SOUND.” Both actors will reportedly showcase their singing talents in the film.

THE HISTORY OF SOUND represents a significant career milestone for Mescal, marking his first executive producer credit and his first project following his starring role in GLADIATOR II. The screenplay, adapted by Ben Shattuck from his award-winning short story, explores themes of grief, companionship, and the transformative power of music during one of history’s most turbulent periods.

Despite the excitement surrounding the project, O’Connor has expressed “mixed feelings” about portraying a gay character as a straight man, though he was deeply moved by the script’s emotional core. The film arrives during an era when LGBTQ+ cinema has gained significant mainstream recognition, collecting major awards and critical acclaim.

With production companies End Cue, Fat City, Film4, Closer Media, Tango Entertainment, and Storm City Films all contributing to the project, THE HISTORY OF SOUND represents a collaborative effort years in the making. As audiences await the announcement of its world premiere in the coming months, the film stands poised to continue the tradition of powerful queer narratives finding their place in contemporary cinema.

More Paul Mescal

Mescal: IFTA Best Supporting Actor
Paul Mescal in GLADIATOR 2
ALL OF US STRANGERS now streaming
Mescal and Scott take The Co-Star Test

Irish Film

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Andrew Scott in BLUE MOON

Andrew Scott in BLUE MOON

Andrew Scott in BLUE MOON

Andrew Scott graced the world premiere of BLUE MOON at the Berlin International Film Festival alongside Ethan Hawke, Margaret Qualley, and director Richard Linklater on Tuesday. The film, shot in Ireland last summer, represents yet another collaboration between Linklater and Hawke, this time creating a one-scene musical drama set in 1943.

While Scott portrays composer Richard Rodgers in BLUE MOON, his casting highlights a career marked by thoughtful role selection and artistic versatility. The Dublin-born actor has built an impressive filmography that spans stage, television, and cinema, with BLUE MOON adding another notable credit alongside his fellow Irish actor Simon Delaney.

Scott’s involvement in this production follows his acclaimed performances in films like PRIDE, SPECTRE, and 1917, as well as his unforgettable television work in SHERLOCK and FLEABAG. Linklater’s musical drama unfolds within a hotel and bar setting on the opening night of OKLAHOMA! with Hawke embodying the troubled Broadway lyricist Lorenz Hart, whose credits include “The Lady Is a Tramp” and the titular song.

The director aimed to echo the craftsmanship of 1930s and 40s musical theatre, creating a film that, like a Rodgers and Hart composition, balances beauty, sadness, and humor. Scott’s portrayal of Richard Rodgers places him in a narrative exploring the creative partnership behind some of America’s most beloved standards, further demonstrating his range following recent leading roles in ALL OF US STRANGERS and RIPLEY.

Produced in association with Dublin-based Wild Atlantic Pictures, BLUE MOON competes in the main section of the Berlinale eleven years after Linklater won the Silver Bear for BOYHOOD, another Hawke collaboration. The festival’s new director, Tricia Tuttle, has expressed hope that the event’s films would take center stage despite current political discourse, with awards to be presented by a jury led by US director Todd Haynes on Saturday evening.

More Andrew Scott

IFTV-Blog-16-180x180
Scott earns Golden Globes nomination
Andrew Scott in PEOPLE WATCHING
RIPLEY now on Netflix

Irish Film

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Chris O’Dowd on THE LATE LATE SHOW

Chris O'Dowd on THE LATE LATE SHOW

Chris O'Dowd on THE LATE LATE SHOW

In a delightful convergence of Irish and international talent, County Roscommon’s own Chris O’Dowd is set to grace RTÉ’s THE LATE LATE SHOW alongside an impressive lineup of guests, bringing with him a treasure trove of stories that perfectly capture his journey from small-town Ireland to global stardom. The Boyle native, known for his role in MOONE BOY, will be joined by Hollywood star Christina Hendricks to discuss their latest collaboration, SMALL TOWN, BIG STORY, a series that brings O’Dowd back to his roots in rural Ireland.

The timing of this appearance feels particularly poignant, as O’Dowd recently shared an extraordinary tale from his first-ever Late Late Show experience. Back in 1998, as a UCD student plucked from the campus bar to fill the audience, he received an unexpected gift from then-host Gay Byrne – ferry tickets to Cherbourg. What started as a simple “booze cruise” turned into a four-month French adventure for the former Roscommon minor goalkeeper, who found himself seduced by French bread and the excitement of the 1998 World Cup while his friends returned home.

This full-circle moment showcases O’Dowd’s enduring connection to his hometown of Boyle, where he and his wife Dawn O’Porter recently returned to open the town’s beloved Arts Festival. The show’s stellar lineup also includes Steve Coogan, O’Dowd’s MOONE BOY co-star, who will discuss bringing DR. STRANGELOVE to Dublin’s Bord Gáis Energy Theatre and reflect on his iconic Alan Partridge character, along with his recent acquisition of an Irish passport. Adding to the evening’s entertainment, comedian Katherine Ryan will share her own Irish heritage story and the romantic tale of marrying her high school sweetheart after a twenty-year intermission. The night will culminate with a performance by 90s icon Gabrielle, known for hits like “Dreams” and “Rise,” ahead of her anticipated 3Arena concert.

The gathering of these diverse talents on THE LATE LATE SHOW represents a beautiful blend of local charm and international appeal, proving that even as Irish talent conquers the global stage, the pull of home remains irresistible. For O’Dowd, it’s a reminder that sometimes the most extraordinary journeys begin in the most ordinary places – be it a college bar in Dublin or a small town in Roscommon.

Irish Television

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BRIDGERTON S4 sneak peak

BRIDGERTON S4 sneak peak

BRIDGERTON S4 sneak peak

Netflix has set hearts aflutter with the first glimpse of BRIDGERTON‘s fourth season, treating fans to an intimate behind-the-scenes look at what promises to be another enchanting chapter in the beloved series. The newly released sneak peek, which dropped on Valentine’s Day 2025, offers tantalizing glimpses of the show’s next romantic adventure, centered around the free-spirited Benedict Bridgerton, portrayed by Luke Thompson. Taking its cues from Julia Quinn’s AN OFFER FROM A GENTLEMAN, the season weaves a spellbinding romance that Thompson describes as a “twist on Cinderella,” following Benedict’s unexpected encounter with a mysterious Lady in Silver at his mother’s masquerade ball.

The fresh footage reveals returning fan favorites, including Nicola Coughlan‘s Penelope Featherington, who appears in two pivotal scenes – one intimate moment with her husband Colin Bridgerton, and another alongside the formidable Queen Charlotte at the masquerade ball. Adding to the excitement, showrunner Jess Brownell confirmed at the BRIDGERTON: SEASON OF LOVE 2025 Fan Event that season two’s beloved couple, Kate and Anthony Bridgerton, will return, with Johnny Bailey and Simone Ashley reprising their roles, promising glimpses of their marital bliss and new journey into parenthood.

Perhaps most intriguingly, the season introduces newcomer Yerin Ha as Sophie Baek, who steps into the glittering world of the ton as Benedict’s love interest. The production, which began rolling cameras in September 2024, is set to conclude filming in April 2025, though eager fans will need to exercise patience – Netflix isn’t expected to premiere this latest installment until 2026. This continuation of the BRIDGERTON saga promises to maintain the series’ signature blend of romance, drama, and societal intrigue, while exploring new territories through Benedict’s artistic soul and his reluctance to follow his brothers into matrimonial bliss. With its stellar cast and creative team hard at work, including veteran stunt professional Mark Vanselow at the helm, and the addition of acclaimed actors like Academy Award winner Marisa Tomei, Ving Rhames, and Michael Chiklis, the fourth season appears poised to captivate audiences once again with its unique blend of period romance and modern sensibilities.

Irish Television

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Irish talent shines at IFTA 2025

Irish talent shines at IFTAs 2025

Irish talent shines at IFTAs 2025

The 2025 Irish Film and Television Awards transformed Dublin into a constellation of stars on Friday evening, with SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE emerging as the night’s biggest winner. The intimate drama secured both Best Film and Best Actor for Cillian Murphy, who delivered a memorable acceptance speech apologizing to his fellow nominees from hip-hop group Kneecap: “Sorry Kneecap. You had me outnumbered.”

The evening proved particularly triumphant for Saoirse Ronan, who demonstrated her versatility by claiming two major awards. She won Best Actress for her compelling performance in THE OUTRUN, where she portrayed a young woman grappling with alcoholism – a project she created alongside her husband Jack Lowden. “I got to make this film with the love of my life,” Ronan shared emotionally from the stage. She also secured Best Supporting Actress for her role in the World War II drama BLITZ, during which she graciously acknowledged the team from ATONEMENT, the film that launched her Oscar-nominated career.

The ceremony highlighted the growing international appeal of Irish cinema, with Colin Farrell winning Best Lead Actor in a TV Drama for his transformation in THE PENGUIN. The gritty drama SAY NOTHING garnered multiple honors, including Lead Actress in a Drama Series for Lola Petticrew’s powerful portrayal of Dolours Price. The series also earned Anthony Boyle the Rising Star award for his depiction of Brendan Hughes, while Tom Vaughan-Lawlor and Hazel Doupe secured supporting actor awards.

In a particularly poignant moment, director Rich Peppiatt accepted his Best Director award for KNEECAP with news that carried special weight: he had become an Irish citizen just hours before the ceremony. Holding up an Irish flag badge, he declared, “I became an Irish citizen earlier today, only about two hours ago, just in time.” The film itself, predominantly in Irish, represents a bold celebration of language and culture, with its creators insisting on authenticity in their storytelling.

BAD SISTERS continued its successful run with Sharon Horgan taking home the award for Script Writing. Horgan tantalized fans with hints about a potential third season, expressing interest in casting Sebastian Stan or Andrew Scott as the show’s next antagonist. The series’ acclaim underscores the growing global appetite for Irish storytelling.

Industry veteran Colm Meaney received the Lifetime Achievement Award, approaching the honor with characteristic humor: “It means a thing about yay size, very heavy. It’s a wonderful award, it’s very special, and to get it from my home town and from my peers too.”

The evening served as a powerful reminder of Ireland’s flourishing film industry, with Andrew Scott capturing the sentiment perfectly: “We have incredible crews here, and the standard of our work is going from strength to strength. I just hope that we continue making films that are authentically Irish and what it means to be Irish. There is a real international audience for not just the actors who are doing well at the moment, but all types of filmmakers. It’s a really incredibly exciting time.”

Indeed, as the credits rolled on another spectacular IFTA ceremony, it was clear that Irish cinema isn’t just finding its voice – it’s commanding the global stage with stories that resonate far beyond its shores.

More Cillian Murphy

Cillian Murphy: Oscar 2025 presenter
28 YEARS LATER begins filming
Murphy in BLOOD RUNS COAL
Murphy on SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE

Irish Film, Irish Television

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2025 IFTA preview

IFTA 2025 preview

IFTA 2025 preview

The glittering heart of Ireland’s entertainment industry is set to pulse through Dublin this Valentine’s Day as a constellation of stars descends upon the Royal Convention Centre for the prestigious Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA) Awards. Hosted by the charismatic Kevin McGahern, this year’s ceremony promises to be an extraordinary celebration of Irish creative talent, with veteran actor Colm Meaney taking center stage to receive the coveted IFTA Lifetime Achievement Award.

The guest list reads like a who’s who of Irish entertainment, featuring Oscar nominee Cillian Murphy, fresh from his role in SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE, alongside fellow luminaries Saoirse Ronan of THE OUTRUN and BLITZ, Andrew Scott of RIPLEY, and Ruth Negga, starring in PRESUMED INNOCENT. The ceremony will also welcome BRIDGERTON star Nicola Coughlan, BAD SISTERS creator Sharon Horgan, and the dynamic trio from KNEECAP: J.J. Ó Dochartaigh, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, and Naoise Ó Cairealláin.

The star power continues with appearances from Liam Cunningham of 3 BODY PROBLEM, Eva Birthistle from KATHLEEN IS HERE, and rising star Alisha Weir of ABIGAIL. Adding to the glamour are HOUSE OF THE DRAGON‘s Clinton Liberty, Chris O’Dowd showcasing his new series SMALL TOWN, BIG STORY, and OUTLANDER sensation Caitriona Balfe. SALTBURN and CONVERSATIONS WITH FRIENDS star Alison Oliver will join DEXTER: ORIGINAL SIN‘s Patrick Gibson among the distinguished attendees.

Meaney, the man of the hour, expressed genuine surprise at his selection for the Lifetime Achievement Award. “To say I was surprised when I got the news that IFTA wanted to give me this award would be an understatement,” he remarked with characteristic humility. “I was truly shocked. To be asked to join this long list of very illustrious previous recipients is a huge honour.”

For those unable to attend, TikTok star Eric Roberts will be bringing the red carpet glamour directly to fans through IFTA’s Official TikTok Account, with coverage beginning at 5pm. The entire ceremony will be broadcast on RTE One at 10.55pm on Saturday, February 15, allowing viewers nationwide to share in this celebration of Irish creative excellence.

The event, supported by Screen Ireland and Coimisiún na Meán, with key sponsors including RTE, Don Julio, IFTN, TikTok, Canon, and Sculpted by Aimee, stands as a testament to the flourishing Irish entertainment industry and its growing influence on the global stage.

Irish Film, Irish Television

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Rich Peppiatt’s KNEECAP journey

Rich Peppiatt's KNEECAP journey

Rich Peppiatt's KNEECAP journey

 

From tabloid whistleblower to provocative filmmaker, Rich Peppiatt’s journey to potential BAFTA glory is as unconventional as they come. His latest film KNEECAP, which has garnered six BAFTA nominations and 17 IFTA nods, marks an extraordinary transformation for the London-born journalist who once made headlines exposing questionable practices at the Daily Star.

After his high-profile resignation in 2011 and multiple mentions in Lord Leveson’s phone-hacking inquiry, Peppiatt channeled his experiences into a stand-up show about tabloid culture. This caught the attention of Hugh Grant and Steve Coogan, both prominent figures in the Leveson inquiry, who encouraged him to adapt it into his first film. “If you are a person who doesn’t really know what the hell you are doing in life and Hugh Grant and Steve Coogan come up to you and ask you to make a film, you go: ‘Yeah, I’ll give it a go,'” Peppiatt recalls. This baptism by fire ignited his passion for filmmaking.

The path to KNEECAP began after Peppiatt moved to Belfast with his wife, who hails from the republican suburb of Andersonstown. Two weeks into his new life, he encountered the Irish-language rap trio in a pub and was immediately captivated. The film tells their semi-autobiographical story, featuring the band members DJ Próvaí, Mo Chara, and Móglaí Bap, alongside Michael Fassbender as an IRA operative on the run.

The film pushes boundaries with its provocative content, including a controversial line referencing the 1984 Brighton hotel bombing that funders wanted removed. Peppiatt stood his ground, believing that “comedy and art should be pushing up against a line of acceptability.” His dedication to authenticity led him to learn Irish and immerse himself in the culture, understanding the profound significance of the language to young people in Belfast. “You can draw a border on my land, but I will still dream in the language I want,” he reflects on the film’s underlying message.

KNEECAP transcends mere entertainment, emerging as a movement that challenges stereotypes about working-class representation in media. The film showcases young people who can be both street-smart and politically engaged, wearing tracksuits while articulating complex political views. The real-life band has already made waves, with their debut single C.E.A.R.T.A banned by Irish state radio for its explicit content.

Never one to rest on his laurels, Peppiatt is already developing his next project – a controversial satire about Caribbean tourism tackling racial politics. His creative philosophy remains unchanged: “Unless there is some element of ‘I might be absolutely cancelled’, or ‘it might be the last thing I ever do’, then I can’t really get out of bed for it.” It’s this fearless approach to filmmaking that has transformed him from tabloid whistleblower to one of cinema’s most daring new voices.

More Kneecap

KNEECAP on Prime Nov 15
KNEECAP leads BIFA nominations
KNEECAP for The Oscars
KNEECAP trailer

Irish Film

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