Saviours

Saviours is a stunning observational film set in inner city Dublin which follows the roller-coaster fortunes of three boxers, Dean Murphy, Abdul Hussein, and the late Darren Sutherland over an 18-month period as they battle to make the most of their lives, both inside and outside of the ring.

This critically acclaimed and award-winning feature length documentary sees all three test their mettle at St. Saviours Olympic Boxing Academy. It's an oasis of goodwill in one of Dublin's most socially-deprived areas where the boxers are coaxed and cajoled by the club's colourful, wise-cracking coaches.

Saviours weaves a compelling drama from the lives of these young men as they aim for glory despite the struggles they face outside the ring.

The film closely follows the fluctuating fortunes of the three youngsters over a two-year period as they strive to make the most of their lives, both inside and outside of the ring: Dean Murphy tries to overcome a desperate injury and avoid the temptations of the flats, Abdul Hussain fights the immigration authorities and his impending deportation and Darren Sutherland, who gets into university, struggles to balance books and boxing.

Dean, Abdul and Darren are coaxed and cajoled by the canny coaches of what is perhaps Ireland's most famous amateur boxing gym; St. Saviour's Olympic Boxing Academy. Situated slap-bang in the middle of blocks of council flats, the club is a safe haven in a dangerous area and the coaches do their best to encourage young men to achieve their potential in life. The great humour of the coaches helps to create a family atmosphere despite all of the blood, sweat and tears.

Throughout the film, the camera remains side-by-side with the boxers and their coaches in the dressing rooms, in the ring, in their homes and on the streets, creating an incredibly candid portrayal of inner city life.