Irish language horror film, An Taibhse, also known as The Ghost, received its international premiere at Pigeon Shrine FrightFest. The festival has a reputation for championing the work of new voices in the genre sphere, and Irish writer and director John Farrelly certainly fits into the box. Still very early in his career, with An Taibhse, Farrelly has created a film that has got everyone talking, and not just because it is the first Irish language horror movie. Farrelly displays a deft amount of talent for creating creepy atmosphere and a flair for shadowplay. Also produced by six-time Oscar nominee Jim Sheridan, An Taibhse is a bone-chilling tale set against the haunting backdrop of Ireland’s infamous famine era.
Set in Ireland during the year 1852, An Taibhse tells the story of father Éamon (Tom Kerrisk) and daughter Máire (Livvy Hill) as they embark on a tranquil caretaker role at an isolated mansion during the unforgiving winter months. Their peaceful assignment unleashes a nightmare of supernatural proportions as a malevolent force awakens within the mansion’s walls, stirring dark secrets from the past. With every creaking floorboard and flickering candle, suspense tightens its grip, leaving sanity hanging by a thread.
An Taibhse opened the first full day of films, and went down a treat with the attendees. Later in the day, John Farrellly came to the media wall accompanied by three of his cast – Tom Kerrisk who plays Éamon, Livvy Hill who plays Máire, and Anthony Murphy who plays the Land Steward. Taking place shortly after the premiere, THN spoke to the team to find out how they found the audience reaction, how familiar they were with the Irish language before signing on, and why the move is so important for Irish cinema.
An Taibhse received its international premiere at Pigeon Shrine FrightFest. A release date for An Taibhse is still to be announced.
