Town opens new era for The Dawn

A MAN before his time, who made the first full-length, all-Irish film in Killarney, Co Kerry, almost 70 years ago, will be honoured this weekend.

The late Thomas G Cooper was yesterday remembered by his son, John C, as a person of many parts, who made his mark on Irish cinematic history with The Dawn, based on the activities of an IRA flying column during the War of Independence.

The film never actually had a premiere, but there will be a black tie, charity premiere, as part of Killarney 250 celebrations, tomorrow night. “The Dawn was only one part of his life. While not wishing to be boastful, he did many other things as well and was remarkable in everything he did,” said Mr Cooper, who was just six when the movie was completed in 1936.