A feature documentary on Roger Corman and his studios in Connemara called 'It Came From Connemara!!' will be screening at 15:00 on Wednesday 9th July in the Town Hall Theatre as part of the Galway Film Fleadh. The film is directed and produced by Brian Reddin through Dearg Films, and Reddin will be in attendance at the screening in Galway.
Corman launched the directorial careers of Coppola, Scorsese and Jonathan Demme and introduced the world to Jack Nicholson, Dennis Hopper and Robert De Niro. Corman was never concerned with awards or creating anything aesthetic; he was interested in making money and having fun, churning out cheap exploitation flicks in the 50s with titles like ‘Swamp Women’.
By the 90s, Corman set his sights on Ireland. His time making movies in Connemara, five years in total, would be marred by controversy as he managed to upset unions and the tastes of cinephiles. But, Corman gave those who worked with him an opportunity to learn the film industry and a chance to progress through the film making ranks. He helped to launch many production careers in Ireland and there are many who credit him with their success.
The Corman Connemara Studios employed hundreds of people through its few years in production and released almost 20 feature films, all shot in Connemara by Irish crews with Irish actors. Yet, the story of the studios and the movies Corman made there has never been told.
The documentary features exclusive interviews with Roger Corman, Don 'The Dragon' Wilson, James Brolin and Corbin Bernsen as well as interviews with the Irish cast and crew, John Brady, Celine Curtin, Maeve Joyce and Evelyn O'Rourke. There will also be behind the scenes footage and stills.
The documentary was produced and directed by Brian Reddin. The DOP was Gerry MacArthur and it was edited by Ultan Murphy in Windmill Lane. The documentary was funded by TG4 and the BAI.
Buy tickets to the screening here.
See the trailer here:
