The feature film, which began principal photography in Belfast on Monday, sees O’Connell, best known for his role as James in Channel 4 series ‘Skins’, play troubled teenager Eric, who is transferred to an adult prison.
When he meets a man in prison who turns out to be his father, Eric’s violent ways look set to continue, until the prison psychologist, played by Friend, takes an interest in him and he slowly begins a transformation.
‘The Dark Knight Rises’ actor Ben Mendelsohn is playing the role of Nev, Eric's father.
Shooting is currently taking place in Crumlin Road Jail in Belfast, with a number of key Northern Irish crew on set, including Emmy-winning sound recordist Ronan Hill (Game of Thrones), costume designer Susan Scott (Food Guide to Love), production designer Tom McCullagh (Grabbers) and locations manager Catherine Geary (Good Vibrations).
British director David Mackenzie (You Instead) is helming ‘Starred Up’, with Gillian Berrie (Perfect Sense) producing for Scottish production company Sigma Films. Katherine Butler, Sam Lavender, James Atherton, Jan Pace, Norman Merry, Peter Hampden and David Mackenzie will all serve as executive producers. Jonathan Asser has penned ‘Starred Up’, making his feature film debut.
Sigma previously co-produced with Blinder Films on IFTA-nominated thriller ‘Citadel’, and Subotica on 'Perfect Sense'.
‘Starred Up’ received funding from the Northern Ireland Screen supported by Invest NI and part funded by the European Regional Development Fund.
The film is presented by Film4 in association with Creative Scotland, Quickfire Films, Northern Ireland Screen and Lip Sync Productions.
Independent Film Company is handling sales.
