New Irish Feature Film Joyride Starring Olivia Colman Begins Production in Co Kerry
Posted: 2nd July 2021
Joyride, the new feature film starring Olivia Colman, has begun shooting on location in Kerry this week. Helmed by Emmy award-winning director, Emer Reynolds, the film follows the adventures of two very different main characters, both, in their own way, on the run. Fourteen year old Charlie Reid has landed the role of his young life, starring opposite one of the most talented actresses in the industry and an acclaimed academy award winner. Throughout July the production will film at an array of locations throughout the county with many locals already on board to take part as extras. The story of the growing relationship between the two unlikely tearaways was created and written by screenwriter Ailbhe Keogan who hails from Kerry.
Produced by Subotica with support from Screen Ireland through development and production, UK rights have been picked up by Vertigo with Embankment handling international sales.
Screen Kerry, the Kerry Film Office, was delighted to assist the production to shoot in the county. This meant putting them in contact with local accommodation providers & businesses, highlighting local crew, linking the production to facilities and trainees and connecting them with the local film network. Siobhan O’Sullivan, Kerry Film Development Officer, described how important it is to have productions of this quality shooting in the county. “The energy & economic impact that a production brings to a locality can’t be underestimated. This film is providing opportunities for local trainees and entry level crew to gain experience while working in a highly professional environment. We’re thrilled to have Joyride shooting here this Summer and look forward to bringing far more productions to the county.”
Ailbhe Keogan pushed for the film to be made in Kerry, both as the screenwriter and as a Board member of Kerry International Film Festival, part of whose remit is to foster film creativity, industry and appreciation in Kerry. “Siobhan and I worked closely to attract this production to Kerry. Despite its outstanding beauty and the fact the story is set here does not guarantee the production can film in a regional setting. Screen Kerry did colossal work to ensure we could compete favourably with the East coast”.
Stakeholders in the county, including Kerry College Monavalley, Kerry County Council & Creative Ireland were highly supportive of bringing the production to Tralee. Kerry County Council Arts Office, Economic Development Office and County Area Engineers provided swift assistance at all points ensuring a smooth transition into the county for the production.