Break Out Pictures has announced the theatrical release of Sinéad O’Shea’s award-winning festival favourite Pray For Our Sinners, which opens in cinemas from April 21.
Pray For Our Sinners documents Sinéad’s return to her hometown in Navan in search of those who fought against the Catholic Church and discovers the ways in which local people found a way to resist. It is a film of unexpected twists as it chooses to shine a light on those who attempted to stand up to the church in a quiet but deeply moving resistance.
The film is not a straightforward narrative of sinners and victims. The story that emerges is a nuanced account of Catholicism and its role in Irish life. It focuses on the tradition of silence in Ireland and how difficult it has been for the people from Sinéad’s hometown to articulate the suffering they endured.
It is only through old friendships and neighbourly connections that we hear previously untold testimonies from mother and baby homes, and stories from within school classrooms about corporal punishment. By taking such a personal approach, Sinéad has crafted a fresh account of how Catholicism wielded such power in Ireland since it gained independence.
Through the voices of its gently heroic characters, Pray for Our Sinners depicts a society full of love, hope and understanding. As the film says, “There is always a way to resist.”
Speaking on the upcoming release Director O’Shea said: “I am very proud to be sharing these stories of resilience and resistance. I hope they provide insights into Irish life and draw attention to the continuing issues caused by the relationship between Church and State here.”
The film is directed by Sinéad O’Shea, produced by Sinéad O’Shea and Maya Derrington with Katie Holly serving as executive producer. The film was financed by Screen Ireland.
Pray For Our Sinners releases in irish cinemas on April 21st.
