Irish-Belgian film ‘Bonhoeffer’ has European premiere in Limerick

'Bonhoeffer' was directed by acclaimed screenwriter Todd Komarnicki

Todd Komarnicki, director of 'Bonhoeffer' at its premiere at Belltable Arts Centre, Limerick. Picture: Brendan Gleeson

Limerick city played host to the European premiere of Bonhoeffer on Tuesday night, a €22m Irish-Belgian co-production was filmed on locations across the Mid-West.

The city's Georgian Quarter doubled as 1940s Germany in the feature film, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Todd Komarnicki ( Elf,  Sully), and joined by the cinematographer of Gladiator, John Mathieson.

Filming for the production also took place in Castle Oliver close to Ardpatrick, as well as in Kilfinane and Glenroe in Co Limerick. 

Bonhoeffer is inspired by the life of German theologian and anti-Nazi resistance figure Dietrich Bonhoeffer.

'Bonhoeffer' tells the story of a man who did not stay silent 'in the face of evil'.

Director Todd Komarnicki told the Irish Examiner: “My entire experience in Limerick in every aspect was amazing. I love shooting here. 

"I love the passion for film that I found in local crew and Paul Ryan from the Limerick film office was just an absolute gentleman and an ongoing source of help and guidance. 

"I have nothing but rave reviews for Limerick.” 

The film tells the story of a man who did not stay silent “in the face of evil”, and there is one message he hopes audiences will take away from his movie.

“This movie is about a time 80 years ago, but it's also about today," Komarnicki said.

Paul C Ryan, arts minister Patrick O'Donovan,  Seán Flynn, location manager, and Todd Komarnicki, director at the premiere. Picture: Brendan Gleeson

"We find ourselves waking up to the rise of fascism at an extraordinary speed, and this movie is a call to every human to rise up and speak the truth and fight against the darkness."

“I'm really hoping that people don't look at this as a period piece, but look at it as an emergency, and draw inspiration from the life of the hero.” 

In the future, the director hopes to work in Ireland again — where he has been spending his summers for over 20 years, after falling in love with Kildare model Jane Bradbury.

“I cannot wait to shoot here again. I'm here every summer for the last 26 years. I feel like I've kind of memorised the country ever since I fell in love with the girl from Kildare," he said. 

"I was lucky enough to marry Jane and she has been my gateway to all of Ireland. 

"I think you could shoot here for a hundred years and never discover all its beauty.” 

Olwyn Jennings, Emma and Olivia Gardiner, and Margaret Cardy in Limerick. Picture: Brendan Gleeson

The European premiere of Bonhoeffer marks another milestone for the film industry in the Mid-West. 

Regional film manager, Paul C Ryan said: “With 70% of the crew locally based, on such a large budget production, shows just how far we have come in developing the sector in recent years. 

"With support from the OPW and local authorities and businesses, the production of Bonhoeffer was a dream and we are so delighted to celebrate the production here in Limerick at our red-carpet premiere.”