60 minute documentary 'Sacred Sites: Ireland' will be aired for American viewers on the Smithsonian Channel on Monday July 7th, giving American viewers a revolutionary new insight into Ireland’s ancient sites. The documentary was produced by Tiles Films, directed and produced by multi award-winning filmmaker Stephen Rooke (Saving the Titanic, Waterways) and written by David Ryan (who also co-wrote the IFTA-winning Cromwell in Ireland).
The documentary, which was completed for the US channel, offers American viewers an extraordinary new insight into the ancient sacred sites of Ireland – from the majestic passage tomb of Newgrange to the enigmatic stone circles of Beaghmore in County Tyrone. 'Sacred Sites:Ireland' is based on Patrick McCafferty’s extensive research into comets, meteors and ancient religion, and benefits from the participation of leading historians, archaeologists and scientists.
IFTN caught up with Stephen Rooke recently to find out more about the film. "David Royle and Chris Hoelzl of the Smithsonian Channel asked us to produce a film about sacred sites in Ireland," Stephen revealed. "And we were fascinated to learn about Patrick McCafferty’s research on these places. It gave us a new angle on religion in ancient Ireland and it was really remarkable to look at these familiar sites from a completely different perspective. Many Americans are fascinated by ancient sites, and we believe that Patrick’s theories will challenge the pre-conceived ideas they might have about ancient Ireland." Smithsonian Channel Executive Producer Tim Evans is hugely enthusiastic about the production: "This is a really impressive show," he said, "with an amazing revelation that ties modern astronomy to ancient history. The production values are awesome, and I think the story strikes just the right note."
Tile Films have also produced an Irish language version of the documentary for TG4, which will air later this year. The project was completed for Tile Films by producer/director Stephen Rooke, Photography from Michael O'Rourke, music by Steve Lynch and narration from Ruan Magan.
