Comedian Patrick Kielty has finished filming on location in Co Down for a major new film.
The star, who turned 50 last week, has revealed how much he enjoyed taking part in his first feature film Ballywalter, the feature debut of director Prasanna Puwanarajah.
The film was written by Stacey Gregg and stars Kielty alongside IFTA award nominee Seána Kerslake, Paul Mallon, Joanne Crawford and Tara Cush.
Kielty tweeted: “Beyond proud to be part of this. So lucky to shoot in County Down with THE most amazing crew. And be told to drink gin/eat chips/grow a pony beard for the role.”
Written by Gregg and directed by Doctor Foster and Patrick Melrose star Prasanna Puwanarajah, Ballywalter is described as a life-affirming story about the unexpected connections that can change the course of lives.
Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph
Wednesday 11th March 2015 - Patrick Kielty
Pictured is Comedian Patrick Kielty in Belfast City Centre for a photo-shoot with the Belfast Telegraph
Picture - Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph
Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph
Wednesday 11th March 2015 - Patrick Kielty
Pictured is Comedian Patrick Kielty in Belfast City Centre for a photo-shoot with the Belfast Telegraph
Picture - Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph
In real life the Dundrum comedian is married to Cat Deely but in the film he plays Shane, who has exiled himself in Ballywalter following the break-up of his marriage and is now trying to get his life back on track by enrolling in a stand-up comedy course.
Seána Kerslake plays Eileen, a destructive, unrepentant university drop-out. Back at home with her mum, she makes ends meet by working as an unlicensed driver in her ex-boyfriend’s minicab.
When Shane calls a taxi to get him to his classes, Eileen answers and a surprising connection is made. As the two spend time together shuttling back and forth, a beautiful friendship develops.
The film has been financed by the BFI awarding funds from the National Lottery, Screen Ireland, Northern Ireland Screen and Salmira Productions.