Why are film producers choosing Limerick?

Limerick: A Rising Star in Ireland’s Film Industry

Limerick has become a magnet for film productions, attracting high-profile projects and showcasing the region’s charm and versatility.recently, the city has witnessed a surge in film activity, transforming its streets and landmarks into cinematic backdrops.

The year 2023 proved particularly fruitful for Limerick, with Russell Crowe’s “The Pope’s Exorcist” filming scenes in the area. The evocative Cleeve’s Condensed Milk Factory was transformed into wartime Nazi Germany for the €22 million production of “Bonhoeffer,” a historical drama thriller about the german theologian and anti-Nazi dissident Dietrich bonhoeffer.

Paul C. Ryan, the regional film manager, emphasizes the importance of expanding Ireland’s film industry beyond its customary hubs like Dublin and Wicklow. “We have a strong international reputation as a premier production location,” he explains, “and to grow the industry, we need to look at growing it nationally.” The establishment of Troy Studios and the creation of a dedicated film office in Limerick have solidified the city’s commitment to filmmaking. “It’s been a real focus to make film a priority, to create employment and attract productions,” says Ryan.

Limerick boasts a diverse range of picturesque locations, from the elegant Georgian quarter to the rugged coastlines of Clare and the scenic castles and rolling hills of Tipperary. This versatility has attracted both film productions and television series, creating a dynamic center for filmmaking.

A pilot episode for “the Wayfinders,” a medieval fantasy series starring McKenzie Crook of “Pirates of the Caribbean” fame, was filmed in the mystical Cratloe Woods in clare. As Ryan points out, choosing Limerick as a base has opened up a treasure trove of undiscovered filming gems in neighboring counties.

Productions like “4 Kids Walk Into a Bank” have further solidified Limerick’s reputation. “Producers keep coming back to me,talking about how amazing and accessible the locations are,” says ryan. “There’s a real sense of enthusiasm and support from the whole region.”

“Places outside of Dublin and Wicklow aren’t top of mind when people think of filming in Ireland,” Ryan admits. “We’re offering a fresh option.” Ultimately, Ryan believes the city’s success is driven by the people. “We in Limerick can sometimes be hard on ourselves, but there are plenty of dreamers who believe in what our city can achieve,” he concludes.

Behind the Scenes: A Location manager’s Journey

Sean Flynn’s path to becoming a location manager wasn’t a straight shot. His journey began unexpectedly, sparked by a period of travel that led him to a traineeship. “I had no intention of becoming a location manager,” he reflects,”but as time went by,I tried out different positions in different departments,and locations suited my personality and my skills the best.”

Paul C Ryan (left) and Sean Flynn Location Manager at the film of 4 Kids walk into a Bank. Picture: Brendan Gleeson

Flynn’s role as a location manager involves the meticulous task of scouting locations for TV shows and films. His process begins with a script from the producer. “You’re always trying to get the closest to what a director has in their head or what’s on the page,” he explains. However, finding the perfect spot requires more than just artistic vision. practical considerations like accessibility, budget, and permissions play a crucial role. “We have to get all our equipment there, our trucks there, our personnel there. We have to be able to afford it, then get all the permissions with the council and property owners. You’re coordinating with all the various departments about what’s needed as it comes in stages.”

While the allure of seeing a movie set up in their neighborhood might tempt some, finding suitable locations isn’t always easy. Flynn explains, “We usually pay location fees, so you try to work within your budget. For moast people, what’s nice about this, it’s usually not about the money. But you always try to be fair for the amount of time you’re taking up in a house or a business, and you make an offering.Sometimes people are fine with that offering, sometimes it’s just not worth it.”

Bonhoeffer. Picture: Angel Studios

Flynn’s experiences in film have taught him valuable lessons about human nature. “I always say to people that if you did what I did for a living, your faith in humanity would be restored becuase when I’m working,” he shares, “…

Working on a film set is a whirlwind of activity, involving countless individuals all working together to bring a story to life.Sean Flynn, with his years of experience, emphasizes the collaborative spirit. “You encounter hundreds, if not thousands, of people over the course of a job, and most people are lovely and will do what they can to help.”

Flynn recalls filming the criminal drama Hidden Assets at Shannon Airport as a particularly memorable experience.

Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of a Location Manager

Sean Flynn never envisioned himself in the world of film. His journey started unexpectedly, during a period of travel that led him to a traineeship. What began as a temporary stint evolved into a fulfilling career spanning years.

“I had no intention of becoming a location manager,” he reflects. “but as time went by, I tried out different positions in different departments, and locations suited my personality and my skills best.”

as a location manager, Flynn’s role involves the crucial task of scouting locations for TV shows and films. The process begins with a script from a producer.

“You’re always trying to get the closest to what a director has in their head or what’s on the page,” he explains. But finding the perfect spot requires more than just artistic vision; practicality is paramount.”We have to get all our equipment there, our trucks there, our personnel there. We have to be able to afford it, then get all the permissions with the council and property owners. You’re coordinating with all the various departments about what’s needed because it comes in stages.”

The search for the ideal location isn’t always smooth sailing. While many people are happy to host a film crew, not everyone is eager to have their home or business transformed into a movie set.

“We usually pay location fees,” Flynn says. “For most people,it’s usually not about the money. But you always try to be fair for the amount of time you’re taking up in a house or a business, and you make an offering. Sometimes people are fine with that offering, sometimes it’s just not worth it.”

Flynn recounts a particularly memorable experience filming at Shannon Airport. “We filmed on planes there,” he reminisces. “they were hugely supportive. We were filming there during COVID, so it was a rare experience.”

Being a Location Manager requires a unique blend of creativity, meticulous planning, and people skills. It’s a behind-the-scenes role that plays a vital part in bringing the magic of film to life.

Behind the Scenes with Sean Flynn: A Filmmaker’s Outlook

The world of filmmaking is a dynamic and collaborative one, demanding the collective efforts of countless individuals.Sean Flynn, a seasoned veteran of the industry, has witnessed firsthand the intricate workings of film production and the diverse personalities that converge on set. He shares a refreshing perspective on his craft, emphasizing the profound impact it has had on his view of humanity.

“I always say to people that if you did what I did for a living, your faith in humanity would be restored,” Flynn reflects. ” ….”

Flynn’s experiences have shown him the remarkable kindness and willingness to help that he encounters on a regular basis. “You encounter hundreds, if not thousands, of people over the course of a job, and most people are lovely and will do what they can to help,” he observes.

Among the many projects Flynn has been involved in, some stand out as particularly memorable. filming the crime drama *Hidden Assets* at Shannon Airport was a truly unique experience.

“We filmed in Shannon Airport on planes, that was pretty breathtaking,” Flynn reminisces.”They were hugely supportive. We were filming there during COVID, so it was a rare experience.”

What is the biggest challenge you face when trying to find the perfect location for a film?

A day in the life of a Location Manager: An Interview with Sean Flynn

Sean Flynn, a seasoned location manager, has spent years scouting, securing and managing filming locations for countless productions.We sat down with Flynn to gain insights into his interesting profession and what it takes to bring stories to life on screen.

Interview Transcript:

Q: What drew you to the world of film and specifically to the role of location manager?

A: I had no intention of becoming a location manager. I started out traveling and ended up in a traineeship. As I tried different roles in different departments, I realized location management was where I truly belonged. It combines my love for exploring new spaces with the creative energy of filmmaking.

Q: Can you describe your typical day as a location manager?

A: Every day is different, which is what makes it so exciting. It frequently enough starts with reviewing scripts and brainstorming potential locations.Then, it’s scouting, visiting possible sites, assessing their suitability, and negotiating with property owners. We also deal with permits, logistics, and making sure everything is set up for the film crew.

Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you face in finding the right location for a film?

A: It’s a constant juggling act between artistic vision and practical limitations.We need to find locations that match the director’s vision while considering accessibility,budget,permissions,and the overall feasibility of shooting there. Sometiems, a location might look perfect on paper, but it turns out to be logistically impossible.

Q: How do you approach negotiating with property owners who might be hesitant to host a film crew on their property?

A: Openness and respect are key. We explain the project clearly, address their concerns, and offer fair compensation for their time and inconvenience. We aim to make the experience positive for everyone involved.

Q: What’s the most memorable location you’ve ever worked on and why?

A: Filming Hidden Assets at Shannon Airport was amazing. We used real planes! It was a breathtaking setting, and the airport staff where incredibly supportive, especially given the challenges of filming during a pandemic.

Q: Would you say your job has changed your perspective on humanity?

A: Absolutely.I’ve had countless encounters with incredibly kind and helpful people across all walks of life. The collaborative nature of filmmaking highlights the best in human nature – the willingness to come together and create something special.