When a young man released from jail returns to take back control of his drug operation he’s forced to travel from Dublin to New York on a high-stakes mission.
Genre: Crime, Thriller, Drama
CAST LIST:
Narrator: Laura Kyswaty
Michael Mullan: Rob Notman
Swat Leader: James Boutcher
Guard: Luke Robinson
Father Francis: Brandon Knox
Get to know the writer:
What is your screenplay about?
“Celtic Blood” is written in the vein of “24” meets “Sons of Anarchy”. The series is about Irish gangster Michael Mullan, who upon being released from prison, is sent to the U.S. to rebuild his boss’s empire there. He tries to renegotiate terms with the Boston and New York gangs but encounters difficulties due to his quick temper and hidden drug use. Meanwhile FBI Agent David Deere, seeking redemption for past mistakes, leads a task force to indict Michael’s boss but soon uncovers a vast conspiracy within the Bureau. Ultimately, I have plans for this to be similar to a Greek tragedy. In attempting to stay alive, Michael and his crew as his surrogate family will have to make deals with devils and form/break long standing alliances. Finally, Michael will have to sacrifice everything including his soul, to protect those he loves.
What genres does your screenplay fall under?
Organized crime and government conspiracy.
Why should this screenplay be made into a movie?
I believe the gripping story lines; well-rounded characters and realism of both the organized crime and FBI worlds in “Celtic Blood” will appeal to a very diverse audience. In addition to the Irish, there will be characters from all corners of organized crime with elements of each of those cultures. Originally, I envisioned this script as a TV pilot but would be open to discussions as a feature. I do however have a large scale and scope for the universe and mythology of the story that would span multiple years.
How would you describe this script in two words?
Gritty and gripping. Unlike “The Godfather” and “The Sopranos” which romanticized the gangster lifestyle, my goal is to portray these characters as they really are, with no holds barred and all the violence, betrayal and brutality of this life shown. While Michael and his crew are likable and have a code of honor amongst themselves, at the end of the day, they are still criminals living in a kill or be killed world.
What movie have you seen the most times in your life?
12 Angry Men
How long have you been working on this screenplay?
12 years. I wrote the first draft in my sophomore year of college. I have written other scripts but this was the first to which I continually return to, tinker with and develop further. The original draft is radically different and has greatly improved as I’ve revised, retooled and tightened plot, characters and relationships. Massive ongoing research has drastically strengthened and sharpened my writing.
How many stories have you written?
As far as individual screenplays, I have one feature, two pilots and two spec scripts. I have multiple script ideas for features and other TV pilots, two of which I am in the beginning stages.
What is your favorite song? (Or, what song have you listened to the most times in your life?)
“Funky Ceili (Bridie’s Song)” by Black 47. I’m a big fan of Black 47 as well as classic rock.
What obstacles did you face to finish this screenplay?
One of the obstacles I faced was creating the dialogue and character relationships to be authentic to the life of the underworld and the FBI. Developing the characters’ back stories really informed and helped grow and expand the mythology while avoiding cliches and stereotypes.
Apart from writing, what else are you passionate about?
I’m very passionate about my family, protecting and spending time with them. With regarding to passion in film, I’m generally drawn to movies and TV series that deal with and explore true crime, Ireland and Irish culture, father/son and brother/brother relationships. As such, I frequently many of these themes and incorporate them into the stories I tell.
You entered your screenplay via FilmFreeway. What has been your experiences working with the submission platform site?
So far my experience has been very rewarding and would definitely recommend other writers to check it out.
What influenced you to enter the festival? What were your feelings on the initial feedback you received?
I was mainly influenced by the prospect of having my script performed, observing actors’ perceptions and interpretations of my characters, their dialogue and especially how the relationships are portrayed.
The feedback I received was very helpful and I was pleased by the specifics throughout. I welcome any informed feedback as well as inviting discussions. It definitely lends insight and assistance to my other projects. The feedback highlighted some elements that I hadn’t contemplated but may need further consideration.
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Producer: Matthew Toffolo http://www.matthewtoffolo.com
Director: Kierston Drier
Casting Director: Sean Ballantyne
Editor: John Johnson
Camera Operator: Mary Cox
Crime/Mystery Film & Writing Festival 