Upcoming Film 'Saipan' to Explore 2002 World Cup Fallout
- The cast for the film about the fallout from the Saipan World Cup has been announced, with Steve Coogan set to play Mick McCarthy.
- Filming is slated to begin in the summer.
- The film is expected to explore the controversial events surrounding the World Cup.
Irish feature film 'Saipan' is set to delve into the notorious fallout from the 2002 World Cup, featuring Éanna Hardwicke as Roy Keane and Steve Coogan as Mick McCarthy. Production is slated to commence this summer, with filming locations in Ireland and Saipan. Hardwicke, a Bafta-nominated actor recognized for his roles in 'The Sixth Commandment' and 'Lakelands', will portray the controversial footballer Keane. The film is directed by acclaimed filmmakers Glenn Leyburn and Lisa Barros D’Sa, known for their work on the 2013 Irish comedy-drama 'Good Vibrations'. The directors expressed their excitement about tackling a pivotal moment in both Irish and football history, highlighting the impact of the events on national identity and the global spotlight on the small Pacific island of Saipan. Produced by Wild Atlantic Pictures in collaboration with Fine Point Films, 'Saipan' aims to capture the essence of a tumultuous period for the Irish football team. The narrative centers around the infamous clash between Keane and McCarthy, which stemmed from Keane's dissatisfaction with the team's training conditions and facilities provided by the Football Association of Ireland (FAI). Despite attempts by players, coaches, and even former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern to mediate, the conflict remained unresolved, leading to Keane's departure from the squad before the tournament commenced in Japan. The film promises to shed light on this dramatic chapter in Irish football history.