The Race Announced as Opening Night Film

Film Festivals are special places where dreams come true on the big screen and this is often as true for the filmmakers as it is for the audience. The Opening Night film at the Kerry Film Festival is a movie where dreams come true and it's suitable for all! Starring Colm Meaney and new comer, Niamh McGirr, THE RACE is an Irish Film that's both inspirational and, ultimately, uplifting.

"The opening night film this year is a little bit special," said Jason O' Mahony, Director of the Kerry Film Festival. "It's a wonderful Irish film, which reminded me a little of Billy Elliott; except the star of THE RACE is a girl! Niamh McGirr puts in a wonderful performance as the brave and plucky Mary, who has a dream and is determined to see it through."

The actress, Niamh McGirr, will be on hand at the film which screens in Siamsa Tire on Saturday, October 31st. The film screening takes place at 8:00 pm but attendees are encouraged to arrive a little early for a wine reception which begins at 7:30 pm. Tickets are available from the Siamsa box office on 066 712 3055 and cost 10euro, including wine reception.

The film centers around eleven-year-old Mary, played by Niamh McGirr, who lives with her estranged parents on a struggling farm in rural Antrim. With her exasperated mother and proud, stubborn father, played by Colm Meaney, constantly at each other's throats over lack of funds and the future of the farm, life at home is far from ideal.

But Mary has plans; big plans. Ever since she can remember, she has dreamed of becoming a racing driver, so when a rich local farmer sets up a go-cart race down in the valley, she can't resist the chance to enter. But with opposition from home, general scorn from the community and the fact that she is a girl trying to make it in a boy's world, the road to success is never going to be easy.

But Mary doesn't give in. With perseverance, determination and a little help from her loyal friend, Tom, she sets about building a go-cart until, eventually, her spirit and dedication win over the most unlikely hearts. The Race is an inspirational drama in the best tradition of Billy Elliot - a film guaranteed to warm the heart.

The film maintains a wonderful balance between young Mary's dream to be a racing car driver and the realism of the difficult financial times in which it is set. Because the story is relatively straightforward the brilliance comes from the performances and the subtle touches throughout the film. The movie is charming and entertaining in equal measure and will be a treat for all, young and old alike. And with the star of the film attending and a wine reception, the night is sure to delight!