Locals seek roles in movie to be shot in autumn

THERE was a phenomenal response to an open casting call in Schull last Wednesday when more than 300 people turned up seeking a role in a new movie that is about to be made in West Cork.

Hilary McCarthy is the vice-chair of the Fastnet Film Festival, but, on this occasion, was merely lending her friend and film festival patron, Carmel Winters, some assistance as she searched for possible stars and movie extras.

Hilary confirmed that the film, Float like a Butterfly, has the backing of the Irish Film Board and is due to start shooting in a series of spectacular locations between Skibbereen and Goleen in September.

She said they had planned to start the open casting session at Schull Harbour Hotel at 2pm on July 19th but when they arrived, shortly after noon, there was already a queue so they started early and didn't finish until shortly after 8.30pm.

‘There were people there of all ages – from babies right up to people in their 70s, because Carmel was looking for several ages, including boys and girls aged eight to 12, as well as teenagers, and adults.

Hilary said: ‘She was also on the lookout for anyone with good horsemanship, anyone that was musical, or could sing.'

The film, which is to be produced by Martina Niland of Samson films, is about a teenage Traveller girl who is estranged from her father, but tries to reconnect with him when he comes back into her life.

Hilary is confident that the film – which will start shooting on September 11th next and take five weeks to complete – will ‘show off West Cork because all of the locations are absolutely spectacular.'

Describing Carmel as ‘a fantastic director,' Hilary said she was pleased with the talent that turned up on the day.

‘She got some diamonds and was happy with the talent generally, because she wants as many local people in the film as possible.

‘Now,' she added, ‘it is a case of short-listing and doing workshops before filming commences.'