A new Irish film, written by and starring Love/Hate actor Kieran O'Reilly, hopes to give audiences a better understanding of the emotional aftermath of a shock cancer diagnosis - and the supports on offer - when it opens in cinemas on October 5.
For Molly sees O'Reilly team up with director Cathal Kenna to tell the story of Evan, a father-to-be who is diagnosed with cancer while he and his fiancée Laura (played by Maura Foley) are in the midst of their baby and wedding plans.
Evan decides to record a series of home movie messages so their daughter can watch them in years to come.
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"I approached Kieran with the concept," director Kenna told RTÉ Entertainment.
"Kieran really liked the idea and took on the duty of writing the script. He was moved by the story to the point that he turned up one week unexpectedly with a quarter of the script written. I was delighted given how good the writing was, and Kieran then went on to play the role of Evan."
The filmmakers also hope to raise funds for cancer support services through the film, with Kenna saying he wanted to tell a story that was personal.
"I just know so many people who've been directly impacted by cancer in recent times," he continued.
"I've lost some close family members and friends to the illness. It seems every second person you speak to nowadays knows somebody close to them that's dealing with the disease. It's scary, topical and provided an opportunity to explore some emotions that go right to the core of what makes us who we are."
For Molly was filmed with a small cast and crew over just five days in a family home in Navan, Co Meath.
"It was very challenging, hectic and exhausting," Kenna recounted.
"We managed to keep the show on the road, just about. I called in numerous favours from family, friends, industry contacts and benefited from the kindness of strangers on more than one occasion.
"The cast and crew put in an extraordinary shift - I can't praise them enough. We're very proud of the net result."
When asked what he hopes audiences take away from For Molly, Kenna replied: "That life is very short; it's important to take stock of this every now and again and appreciate the special people and moments in your life."
For Molly opens in cinemas around Ireland on October 5. For screenings, see: formollymovie.com.
National Cancer Week runs from September 24 to 30. For more, see cancerweek.ie.
