'I might just be the happiest man in the world... Up Cavan!'

A film by Cavan's Philip Doherty won two major awards at the Galway Film Fleadh, including Best Irish Feature.

Redemption of a Rogue, starring Cavan's Aaron Monaghan and shot mostly in Swanlinbar, was recognised at the prestigious awards event, held this year online. It also won Best Debut Feature.

"Absolutely delighted and shaking with joy," said the talented writer-director Doherty on his Facebook page in light of the double win.

"Thank you to every single person who helped the dream of making this film come true... it's been a privilege to work with so many talented and beautiful people... I think I might just be the happiest man in the world at the moment. Up Cavan!"

Alongside Aaron Monaghan, the film also stars Aisling O'Mara and Kieran Roche.

In Redemption of a Rogue, Jimmy, played by Monaghan, is a prodigal son. He returns home to visit his ailing father and seek redemption before he intends to say goodbye to the world. Jimmy’s father’s will has a condition: he cannot be buried on a wet day.

It's billed as 'A bible, black comedy about a prodigal son returning to his hometown to seek salvation for his sins.'

Doherty previously told the Celt of the film:

“It’s very much a comedy, even if it is a black comedy, and I love trying to find comedy in the darkest of situations. I think no matter how unbearable things get it is humour that lifts you out of those situations. The change of mood is the main story in the transformation of Jimmy,” Doherty outlines.

Best Irish Feature Galway winners

2020: Redemption of a Rogue

2019: Extra Ordinary

2018: The Dig

2017: Michael Inside

2016: A Date For Mad Mary & The Young Offenders

2015: Song Of The Sea

2014: Patrick’s Days and Glassland (Joint Winners)

2013: Run & Jump

2012: Good Vibrations

2011: The Guard

2010: The Runway

2009: His & Hers

2008: Kisses

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In the short trailer we get a flavour of the story of Jimmy, a nihilist carrying around a black leather doctor’s bag containing the rope with which he plans to hang himself. Filled with guilt and shame, he returns to his hometown in the cold austere beauty of West Cavan.

The film is available to view on the Fleadh website this Saturday from 9pm. The screening is followed by a question and answer session with director Philip Doherty, producers Emma Foley & Tamryn Reinecke and cast Aaron Monaghan, Aisling O'Mara and Kieran Roche.

For more details go to www.galwayfilmfleadh.com