Timoleague and Clonakilty star in 1940s-era film

A SHORT film called Shadows has been shot at various locations around Clonakilty and Timoleague. 

Set in West Cork in 1947, it tells the story of farmer Tim Ahern who is walking with his daughter Mary to the train. She is heading off for war-scarred London to train as a nurse. Tim is a veteran of the War of Independence and carries a dark secret, which is revealed during this sad walk with his daughter. The film also shines a light into other aspects of Irish society during that period and in particular the role of the Church. 

Michael Crowley plays the part of Tim, and Donie Walsh plays Father Maguire. Both actors are members of the Kilmeen Drama Group, as is Pat McCarthy who plays the part of Fr Maguire’s driver. Olivia Shortall, who plays Mary, is a fifth year student at Sacred Heart Secondary School in Clonakilty. JP Eady, a transition year student in Clonakilty Community College, plays the part of Peter Dullea. 

Noel McCarthy plays the part of the RIC Officer and Evan O’Sullivan is the young Tim Ahern in the film. The crew on the shoot were assistant director Donal O’Driscoll, director of photography Greg Mulcahy and sound recordist, Sean Phair. 

Local scenic locations such as the high road at Kilavarrig near Timoleague, the footbridge at Castleview and Sheeps Cove (Cos Na Gaoire) near Ring will feature in the film. 

The 1930 Ford Model A car used during the filming was supplied by Bob Clark of Bandon Motors. 

Shadows is directed by Maria Young and produced by Tim Crowley and Maria Young, with the script adapted from an original play Leaving The Nest by Tim Crowley. The crew were based out of the Michael Collins Centre in Castleview during filming. 

The film is being made with financial support from the Heritage and Arts departments of Cork County Council and the Michael Collins Centre. Cumann Seanchais Chloch na gCoillte also contributed financially.