Saipan, a new film directed by Glenn Leyburn and Lisa Barros D’Sa, aims to capture the intense conflict between Roy Keane and Mick McCarthy during the 2002 World Cup preparations. Steve Coogan will take on the role of McCarthy, bringing his versatile acting skills to the screen.
The film’s narrative centres around a significant moment in football history—the infamous Saipan Incident. Roy Keane, then captain of the Republic of Ireland team, had a heated clash with manager Mick McCarthy over numerous issues, leading to Keane’s abrupt departure from the team.
Film Overview
Saipan is a new film directed by Glenn Leyburn and Lisa Barros D’Sa. These directors are known for their successful movies Good Vibrations and Ordinary Love. The script is written by Paul Fraser, the writer of Dead Man’s Shoes. Production is set to begin this summer.
The film centres around the infamous Saipan Incident of 2002. This occurred when Roy Keane, the captain of the Republic of Ireland team, clashed with manager Mick McCarthy during the FIFA World Cup preparation. The fallout was over training conditions, strategy, travel, and diet.
The title of the film refers to the tiny US Pacific territory of Saipan. This is where the clash between Keane and McCarthy took place. The argument led to Keane angrily leaving the team and flying back to Ireland.
Key Roles and Cast
Steve Coogan is set to play Mick McCarthy. Coogan is known for his versatile acting roles and will bring his talent to portraying the former Republic of Ireland manager.
Playing Roy Keane is Éanna Hardwicke, an up-and-coming actor nominated for a BAFTA. Hardwicke’s recent work includes roles in The Sixth Commandment and Lakelands.
The film is produced by Macdara Kelleher and John Keville for Wild Atlantic Pictures. Co-producers include Trevor Birney and Oliver Butler for Fine Point Films.
The executive production team includes Patrick O’Neill, Eoin Egan, Rachael O’Kane, Stephen Kelliher, Sophie Green, Greg Martin, and Ursula Devine. These producers bring a wealth of experience to the project.
Production and Support
Saipan is backed by Screen Ireland and Northern Ireland Screen. This support is essential for the production’s success. The film will be shot in both Ireland and Saipan.
Wildcard and Vertigo Releasing have acquired the UK and Ireland rights for the film. They plan to release it in cinemas in summer 2025. Bankside Films is handling worldwide sales and distribution.
Background of the Saipan Incident
The Saipan Incident is a significant event in football history. Roy Keane had a public fall out with Mick McCarthy during World Cup preparations. Keane criticised McCarthy’s training methods and overall management.
The conflict was intense, with Keane even telling McCarthy to “stick your World Cup up your arse.” This altercation happened in front of the entire team. As a result, Keane left the team and returned to Ireland.
Keane did not play for Ireland again until 2004. This happened only after McCarthy had resigned as team manager. The fallout had a lasting impact on Irish football.
Cinematographic Vision
The directors Glenn Leyburn and Lisa Barros D’Sa aim to capture the intense emotions of the Saipan Incident. Their previous works, Good Vibrations and Ordinary Love, are known for their strong storytelling and emotional depth.
The film will likely incorporate dramatic portrayals of the events that unfolded. The clash between Keane and McCarthy will be a central focus. This will help viewers understand the gravity of the incident.
The film will use both Ireland and Saipan as its primary shooting locations. This approach aims to create an authentic setting for the story. The choice of locations is crucial to the film’s visual and emotional impact.
Key Players in the Film Industry
Macdara Kelleher and John Keville are experienced producers who will oversee the film’s production. They have a background in producing notable films like Evil Dead Rise and Cocaine Bear.
Trevor Birney and Oliver Butler are also co-producers. They have worked on documentaries like Kneecap and Bobby Sands: 66 Days. Their documentary experience will add depth to the film’s narrative.
Executive producers Patrick O’Neill, Eoin Egan, and Rachael O’Kane bring additional expertise. They will ensure the film’s quality and success. They are joined by Stephen Kelliher, Sophie Green, Greg Martin, and Ursula Devine, who also bring valuable experience to the project.
Release and Distribution
The film Saipan is scheduled for a summer 2025 release. It will be shown in cinemas across the UK and Ireland. Wildcard and Vertigo Releasing are managing the local distribution.
Bankside Films is responsible for worldwide sales. This will ensure that the film reaches a global audience. The international release strategy aims to maximise the film’s impact.
The support from Screen Ireland and Northern Ireland Screen is significant. It provides both financial and logistical backing for the film’s production.
Impact on Football History
The Saipan Incident remains a key moment in football history. The intense conflict between Roy Keane and Mick McCarthy is still remembered by fans and analysts alike.
The incident highlighted issues within team management and preparation. It showed how personal conflicts could impact professional sports. This event has been discussed in various sports forums and documentaries.
The film aims to provide a deeper understanding of the incident. It will explore the emotional and professional turmoil faced by both Keane and McCarthy. This will offer viewers a nuanced perspective on the event.
Cultural Significance
The Saipan Incident is not just a sports story. It is also a cultural event that affected many fans and players. It resonated beyond the football community.
The film will explore the broader implications of the incident. This includes its impact on Irish sports culture and national pride. The event sparked debates and discussions in Ireland and beyond.
By focusing on this incident, the film aims to capture a pivotal moment in Irish sports history. It will highlight the emotional and psychological aspects of the conflict.
Saipan promises a deep dive into a dramatic event in football history. With a stellar cast and experienced crew, it aims to offer fresh insights into the Roy Keane-McCarthy clash.
The film’s unique setting and strong narrative are set to captivate audiences. Thus, the movie will likely leave a lasting impression.
