Film revisits 1986 World Cup…
Filming is underway in Belfast on ‘Shooting for Socrates,’ a feature that tells the story of Northern Ireland’s 1986 World Cup campaign when they faced the mighty Brazil.
Richard Dormer (‘Game of Thrones,’ ‘Mrs Henderson Presents’), young Donegal actor Art Parkinson (‘Game of Thrones,’ ‘Freakdog’), John Hannah (‘A Touch of Cloth,’ ‘Spartacus’), Ciarán McMenamin (‘Made in Belfast,’ ‘Red Tails’), Conleth Hill (‘Game of Thrones,’ ‘Suits’), Bronagh Gallagher (‘Grabbers,’ ‘The Commitments’), and Northern Irish reporter and presenter Jackie Fullerton star.
A David versus Goliath story set in Belfast against the backdrop of the World Cup, the film tells the story of a momentous time in Northern Ireland’s football history through the eyes of players, fans and members of the media.
‘Shooting for Socrates’ also follows the lives of a passionate football supporter Arthur and his son Tommy from East Belfast. The lead up to a momentous day in the life of the young boy (his 10th birthday) mirrors the build up to the big day for the Northern Ireland team when they play the greatest match of their lives against Brazil.
Dormer will play Arthur, a Greek Philosophy loving Harland and Wolff crane operator, with Parkinson playing the Arthur’s son Tommy. Hannah will portray Northern Ireland manager Billy Bingham, while Hill will take the role of legend Jackie Fullerton. The film also features the wit and wisdom of Brazil’s chain-smoking, beer-drinking footballing genius, Socrates de Souza who, like his ancient namesake, is something of a philosopher.
The film is directed by James Erskine (‘One Night in Turin,’ ‘From the Ashes,’ ‘The Human Face’) from a script co-wrote with award winning writer and keen football fan Maria Jones.
Richard Williams, CEO, Northern Ireland Screen Richard Williams, CEO, Northern Ireland Screen, said: “We are delighted to welcome New Black Films to film Shooting for Socrates in Northern Ireland, particularly as the script is from one of our foremost writers, Marie Jones. Good screenplays are the life-blood of our industry and Northern Ireland Screen’s support for both the development and production of this project is born out of our continued commitment to develop a dynamic and vibrant screen industry and culture in Northern Ireland.”
‘Shooting for Socrates’ is scheduled for release May 2014, to coincide with next year’s World Cup, set appropriately in Brazil.