FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION

Q: What was the genesis of this film, and how did it evolve over the course of development to production and completion?

"The genesis was inspired by witnessing the cordoned-off site of the 2004 Northern Bank robbery in Belfast the morning after it took place. What fascinated me was the extraordinary human story at the core of the event – two ordinary bank employees and their families forced into an impossible situation.

Later, when I connected with my co-writer, Aisling Corristine, the script evolved into a tight, claustrophobic study of pressure and survival. With producers Ruth Carter, Damon Lane and Johanna Hogan on board, we deliberately leaned into a simple, economical but very cinematic visual approach, recreating the atmosphere of 2004 Belfast across our shooting locations in both Dublin and Belfast."

Q: What did you feel was the most fulfilling element of working on this film?

"The most fulfilling element was exploring the raw human spirit under extreme pressure, stripping away standard heist genre tropes in order to focus on human vulnerability and resilience. Watching the interplay between Eddie Marsan and Éanna Hardwicke elevate that vision was fascinating, and working with such great producers and crew to bring it all to the screen was equally incredible."

Q: To what extent was your on-screen talent vital to the success of the film?

"They were the absolute bedrock. Because the story relies so heavily on character dynamics and psychological tension within confined spaces, every subtle shift in expression matters. Eddie and Éanna deliver, in my opinion, a masterclass in precision and volatile energy that grounds the film's tension.

Combined with an amazing supporting cast, the talent elevated every beat of the script, bringing truly authentic fear and complexity to what could easily have been a purely mechanical thriller."

Q: What does it mean to have your work acknowledged by your peers in the Irish film community and have it showcased for consideration for the IFTA Awards?

"It means so much! Having grown up watching and being inspired by Irish cinema, to have No Ordinary Heist showcased by the Academy is a real privilege and a testament to all the hard work of our cast, producers and entire crew."