Western Front Studios complete shoot of new short film in Westport

Western Front Studios have concluded shooting their newest project, ‘Remote Strutting’.

The short film, which was shot at the PortWest headquarters in Westport, was commissioned by the esteemed Ardan/RTÉ Film Bursary.

Co-Founders of Western Front studios, and the film's producers, Emer and Brian Durcan, expressed their joy at producing another film in Westport. The pair cited the ‘tremendous support’ from the local community, the dedicated staff, and the Hughes Family who oversee PortWest. 

A celebration of triumph, diversity, and community spirit, the Ardan Fis Pitching competition winning script was penned by Ruaidhri Hallinan.

Speaking about the film, Mr Hallinan said the classic saying ‘write about what you know’, served as the ‘guide and inspiration for the backstory’ of the project.

‘Remote Strutting’ is a delightful narrative centred around Mia, a young IT professional with a specific challenge that prevents her from stepping outside her comfort zone. 

“Drawing from my personal experiences of working remotely, I tried to capture the essence of virtual communication where the absence of physical interactions fuels our imagination across the digital chat rooms with colleagues,” said Mr Hallinan.

The writer explained how his experience with remote working led to the creation of Mia, ‘who navigates between real and imagined worlds in her real life’. 

The short, happy, film takes a unique approach by spotlighting inclusivity with a cast that includes deaf actors, ISL interpreters, and crew member who knows ISL. 

Produced by Emer Durcan of Western Front Studios, and lensed by the accomplished producer/cinematographer Brian Durcan (‘Bog’, ‘They Can't Know About Me’), the film benefits from an accomplished team.

Director Lorna Fitzsimons described 'Remote Strutting' as a ‘bright look at a serious subject’ and said her hope is that audiences connect with the ‘imaginative solutions’ to the protagonist’s challenges. 

Ms Fitzsimons said she ‘loved every second of bringing this beautiful script to life’, calling the cast and crew ‘stellar’.

The director said she 'can't wait' to see London-based Irish actress, Lisa Kelly, who stars as Mia, ‘shine on the big screen’.

Additionally, cast members feature promising Irish actor, Dane Whyte O'Hara, as well as John Cronin, Bryan Baker, and local talent, Sheila Moylette.

The heart-warming film promises to captivate audiences with its celebration of success, diversity, and the indomitable spirit of the West of Ireland.

Mr Hallinan said witnessing his script come to life was both ‘humbling and awe-inspiring’, and called the crew's ability to capture the story and translate it to the screen a ‘credit’. 

“As we embark on the edit, I can’t wait to share the story with the world,” he concluded.

‘Remote Strutting’ is set to complete post-production in May, with high hopes for its world premiere at the Galway Film Fleadh in July 2024.