Johnny Flynn and John C. Reilly star in ‘A Prayer for the Dying’
A new survival thriller set in post-Civil War America
Johnny Flynn, known for his roles in “Ripley” and “One Life,” is set to lead the cast of the upcoming survival thriller “A Prayer for the Dying”. Joining him is the versatile John C. Reilly. The film is currently in production near Bratislava, Slovakia, and promises to be a gripping tale of survival and moral dilemmas.
A tale of sacrifice and community
“A Prayer for the Dying” is based on the novel by Stewart O’Nan and is set in 1870 in the small town of Friendship, Wisconsin. This community of Scandinavian settlers is still reeling from the aftermath of the Civil War. The story centers on Jacob Hansen, played by Flynn, who is the town sheriff. When a new and even deadlier threat emerges, Jacob faces a harrowing choice: save his young family or defend the community that gave him a second chance at life. Reilly will portray the local doctor, adding depth to the narrative with his seasoned acting skills.
A stellar supporting cast
The film also features prominent Scandinavian actors Kristine Kujath Thorp, known for “Ninjababy” and “Sick of Myself”, and Gustav Lindh, who starred in “The Northman” and “Queen of Hearts”. Their inclusion adds a layer of authenticity and talent to the project, promising a rich and engaging viewing experience.
Behind the scenes: A director’s dream
Dara Van Dusen, the writer and director of “A Prayer for the Dying”, brings a unique vision to the film. Van Dusen, who hails from New York but currently resides in Oslo, Norway, has a track record of creating compelling narratives. Her short film “Significant Others” competed in the Cannes Official Selection, and her recent work “The Blind Man” was nominated for Best Nordic Short. Van Dusen’s adaptation of O’Nan’s novel is described as a “delicate, eerie beauty” by Flynn, highlighting the director’s ability to craft a dark and foreboding tale that resonates with contemporary audiences.
Production and support
The film is produced by Dyveke Bjørkly Graver and Andrea Berentsen Ottmar for Eye Eye Pictures, whose credits include “The Worst Person in the World” and “Sick of Myself”. The production team is a powerhouse of talent, with co-producers from Garagefilm International, The Bureau, Asterisk*, Blonde Audiovisual Productions, Banaccas Film, Film i Väst, Mediefondet Zefyr, and John Baker. The project has received support from Creative Europe, the Norwegian Film Institute, the Swedish Film Institute, the UK Global Screen Fund, and the Greek Film Center.
A personal reflection on the project
Reflecting on the project, Van Dusen expressed her excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to adapt and direct her favorite novel. She praised the cast, particularly Flynn and Reilly, for their incredible performances. The production in Slovakia has been a wonderful experience, and the team is eager to share the film with audiences worldwide.
The anticipation builds
As the film continues production, anticipation builds for what promises to be a compelling and thought-provoking thriller. With a talented cast and crew, “A Prayer for the Dying” is set to captivate audiences with its powerful narrative and emotional depth.
For those eager to get a glimpse of the film, you can watch the trailer here.
Final thoughts
In a world where cinema often mirrors the complexities of our times, “A Prayer for the Dying” stands out as a poignant exploration of sacrifice, community, and the human spirit. The collaboration of Flynn, Reilly, and Van Dusen, along with a stellar supporting cast and a dedicated production team, promises a film that will resonate deeply with viewers. Keep an eye out for this remarkable film as it makes its way to the big screen.