Shanahan film in post-production

A new short film by acclaimed Navan actor Gerry Shanahan has recently finished shooting and is now in post-production in preparation for its release in the coming months. Written and produced by Shanahan and directed by Cathal Nally of Barbershop Triplet Productions, 'Voices' follows the story of Jack Callahan, his wife Kate and their nine year-old daughter, Sarah. Jack (played by Shanahan) owns a business which has hit the floor in the economic downturn and the film deals with the emotional consequences of the reduced circumstances the family find themselves in. Kate (Una Kavanagh) becomes dependent on antidepressants and expresses her growing resentment for her husband through physical and mental abuse. Their daughter, Sarah (Breacadh McBride), is a witness to this cycle of abuse and recrimination. Filmed over six days in Wicklow, Bettystown beach and the Newgrange Hotel in Navan, the short deals with the private consequences of the recession. "The themes of the film are depression, drug abuse and the effects of the recession on family life," said Shanahan. As the country continues to deal with unemployment and financial strain, the film should strike a chord with the many who are suffering, and in particular with men who can no longer provide for their families. "We did a lot of research and got a lot of help from Amen in particular, a support group for male victims of domestic abuse," he added. The film was self-funded with the aid of a fundraising night organised by co-producers Marie Caffrey, Helene Meade and Barbershop Triplet Productions. The cast of Una Kavanagh, who played Heather in 'Fair City' amongst other roles, Breacadh McBride from Athlumney, Navan, whom Gerry Shanahan describes as "very talented", and Brian Fortune were integral to the successful production of the film. Shanahan says the producers plan to take their time in working on the final cut of the film. "It's important to us to get it right and the way we want it rather than rushing it to be ready for the next film festival, which is what happens with a lot of short films." 'Voices' is just the latest step for Shanahan in a career that stretches back over 10 years. The Navan man has previously worked on television drama 'Fair City' and films such as 'Cracks', 'Omagh', 'Shackled' and 'Colour From The Dark'. He will be appearing in the forthcoming Irish feature 'Portrait Of A Zombie' and will be travelling to Italy in October for an Italian production in English called 'Vexations'.