A new Irish feature ‘The Race’ starring Irish actor Colm Meaney (Intermission, Kings) has begun filming in Belfast and Monaghan with German director Andre Nebe (Tricky Fingers, Examen) directing.

‘The Race’ is a co-production between Dublin based Grand Pictures and the German based Zero West and is based on a screenplay by Northern Irish newcomer Rowan O’Neill. Production began on the 15th of October and will continue for five weeks.

The film is a coming of age story of a young girl’s attempts to achieve her dreams of becoming a racing car driver despite the break up of her family and the concerns of the local community.

Heading up the cast is Colm Meaney (The Snapper) alongside Susan Lynch (Elizabeth: The Golden Age, Waking Ned) and new comer Niamh McGirr in the title role of the young Mary.

The feature is produced by Michael Garland of Grand Pictures and Martin Hagemann of Zero West in Berlin and co-produced by Ailish McElmeel and Line-produced by Paul Myler.

Cinematographer for the shoot is Dirk Morgenstern, production designer is Grant Hicks while Leonie Prendergast will head the costume Design department.

Funding for the film has been backed by the Bord Scannán na hÉireann/The Irish Film Board and Northern Ireland Screen. International sales are being handled by High Point Media Group, London.