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Irish soccer legend Roy Keane’s story to hit the big screen
A cinematic journey into the infamous Saipan incident
In a thrilling development for cinema and sports enthusiasts alike, rising Irish star Éanna Hardwicke, known for his roles in “The Sixth Commandment” and “Lakelands,” is set to portray the legendary Roy Keane in the upcoming Irish feature film, “Saipan.” Joining him is the acclaimed two-time Oscar nominee Steve Coogan, who will take on the role of Mick McCarthy, the former Ireland soccer manager. This dynamic duo promises to bring to life one of the most controversial moments in Irish sports history.
The creative minds behind ‘Saipan’
“Saipan” will be directed by the talented Glenn Leyburn and Lisa Barros D’Sa, the duo behind the critically acclaimed films ”Good Vibrations” and ”Ordinary Love.” The script, penned by Paul Fraser, known for “Dead Man’s Shoes,” sets the stage for a gripping narrative. Production is slated to begin this summer, with a release date aimed for summer 2025.
The incident that shook a nation
The film’s title, “Saipan,” refers to the notorious incident during the 2002 FIFA World Cup preparations. Roy Keane, then captain of the Irish national team, had a highly publicized fallout with Mick McCarthy on the small Japanese island of Saipan. Keane’s fiery temperament led to a bitter dispute over training conditions, strategy, and McCarthy’s competence. This altercation culminated in Keane’s dramatic exit from the team, a moment that left an indelible mark on Irish soccer history.
A deeper dive into the controversy
The fallout from the Saipan incident was monumental. Keane’s explosive interview with the Irish press ignited a media frenzy, and his subsequent verbal tirade against McCarthy in front of teammates became the stuff of legend. The incident polarized Irish society, with debates raging over who was at fault. Keane did not return to play for Ireland until 2004, after McCarthy had stepped down as manager.
Production and distribution details
“Saipan” is produced by Macdara Kelleher and John Keville for Wild Atlantic Pictures, alongside Trevor Birney and Oliver Butler for Fine Point Films. The film will be distributed in the UK and Ireland by Wildcard and Vertigo Releasing, with a saturation theatrical release planned for summer 2025. Bankside Films will handle worldwide sales, ensuring that this compelling story reaches a global audience.
The cast’s personal connections to their roles
Éanna Hardwicke, hailing from Cork, shares a deep connection with his character, Roy Keane, who is often regarded as Cork’s most famous son. Steve Coogan, whose parents are of Irish descent, has long considered himself half-Irish and recently received an Irish passport. These personal ties add an extra layer of authenticity to their performances.
A story that transcends sports
The directors, Glenn Leyburn and Lisa Barros D’Sa, expressed their excitement about bringing this iconic story to the screen. They highlighted the incident’s impact on Irish identity and the nation’s collective psyche. The film promises to delve into the emotional and cultural ramifications of the Saipan incident, making it a must-watch for both sports fans and cinema lovers.
Anticipation builds for ‘Saipan’
Distributors Vertigo Releasing and Wildcard are confident that “Saipan” will be a major hit in the UK and Ireland. They believe that the film will unite audiences in their appreciation for this once-in-a-generation Irish film, directed by the brilliant filmmaking team of Leyburn and Barros D’Sa.
Final thoughts
“Saipan” is more than just a sports film; it’s a deep dive into a pivotal moment in Irish history. With a stellar cast, a talented creative team, and a story that resonates on multiple levels, this film is poised to captivate audiences worldwide. As we await its release, the anticipation continues to build, promising a cinematic experience that will leave a lasting impact.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit Saipan.
Note: This article has been crafted to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of the upcoming film “Saipan,” incorporating personal reflections and in-depth analysis to enrich the content for cinema, TV series, and music enthusiasts.
