In what is sure to be one of the more highly anticipated Irish films in the next few years, Fastnet Films and DeFacto Films are currently developing a feature with US powerhouse Focus Features about the life of former IRA convict and robber Sam Millar.
'On The Brinks' will be based on Millar’s memoir of the same name – which charts his story from his childhood in Belfast, membership of the IRA, time spent in Long Kesh internment camps and his undertaking of the Brinks heist, one of the biggest robberies in U.S. history. He came away with $7.4 million in the 1993 heist before being found guilty and incarcerated. There was another twist to the tale however as he was set free by President Bill Clinton as part of the Northern Ireland Peace Process. He then became a renowned author and playwright. In addition to his memoir, Millar has also wrote several successful crime novels.
The American-Irish co-production, which is set to shoot later in the year, will be written by Michael Lerner (‘Love & Mercy’) with no director yet attached to the project.
Irish producers are Morgan Bushe from Fastnet Films and Tom Collins from DeFacto Films and the film will also be produced by Stephen L'Heureux ('Sin City: A Dame to Kill For') and Alissa Phillips ('Moneyball').
Speaking to IFTN, Morgan Bushe said “Michael is an exceptional writer and we’re confident his screenplay will do justice to Sam’s life and the incredible source material. We would hope it’s a production that can continue to build on what has been an incredible few years for the Irish film industry.”
Producer Tom Collins from De facto Films added: “It’s great that Focus are on board with the feature film, I’m delighted On the Brinks will reach the wide audience it deserves. Exciting times.”
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