‘Shooting for Socrates’, a film about the heady days of Mexico 1986 when Northern Ireland met Brazil in the World Cup finals, goes on general release on Friday 5th June.
The film screened last month at the Belfast Film Festival and stars Irish actors Art Parkinson (‘Games of Thrones’, ‘Dracula Untold’), Chris Newman (‘Song for a Raggy Boy’, Saving the Titanic’) and Northern Irish actors Ciarán McMenamin (‘Made in Belfast’, ‘Jump’), Conleth Hill (‘Game of Thrones’, ‘Salmon Fishing in the Yemen’), Bronagh Gallagher (‘The Commitments’) and Richard Dormer (‘Good Vibrations, ‘Jump’).
‘Shooting for Socrates’ is a David and Goliath story set in Belfast against the backdrop of the 1986 World Cup.
The film tells the story of the Northern Ireland’s football history through the eyes of the players, fans and the media. It follows the lives of football supporter Arthur (Dormer) and his son Tommy (Parkinson) from East Belfast. The lead up to Tommy’s 10th birthday mirrors the build up to the day the Northern Ireland team play their greatest match against Brazil.
The New Black Films production shot in November 2013 in various locations throughout Belfast.
The film is directed by James Erskine (‘The Human Face’) and produced by Victoria Gregory (‘Senna’, ‘Man on Wire’). It was written by Erskine and Maria Jones.
‘Shooting for Socrates’ is supported by Northern Ireland Screen.
The film will go on general release in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland on June 5th.