Irish Film Institute -International Film Directory – Film Listing

Ryan McMullan: Debut

    • Director

      Brendan Byrne

    • Credits

      Producers:
      Andrew Tully,
      Trevor Birney,
      Brendan Byrne.

    • Principal Cast

      Ryan McMullan,
      Foy Vance,
      Paul Hamilton.

  • Category

    Documentary
    Music

Ryan McMullan and his musical team gather on Cruit Island, Co Donegal for an intense 4-day recording and listening session as they work on Ryan’s debut album, a pivotal moment in his career. Against the majestic landscape, we meet singer/songwriter Ryan McMullan, his mentor, artist Foy Vance, manager/drummer Paul ‘Hammy’ Hamilton and producer Eoin O’Callaghan (Elma Orkestra) and watch as Ryan’s song-writing and vocal ability are given full flight. The retreat is punctuated with scenes from Ryan’s career to date - his tour with Ed Sheeran and his friendship with Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody. When the album plans are derailed by Covid-19, Ryan is forced to sit tight until the gloom of the pandemic lifts – waiting eagerly until his message can be unleashed on the world stage.

Notes by Sunniva O’Flynn

80 minutes, Colour, 2021, UK

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