EXCLUSIVE: Christopher Eccleston and Madeleine Madden will lead the cast of Stephen Burke’s heist comedy Chasing Millions, for which LevelK has acquired world sales rights and will launch at next week’s Cannes market.
The film is loosely based on the largest bank robbery in British and Irish history, which took place in December 2004 in Belfast. It will begin shooting on June 2 in Dublin and Dundalk, Ireland.
The story will follow Diana, an Australian police detective, who is investigating the robbery of the Northern Bank while on a family visit; and is paired with Crayford, a seasoned Northern Irish detective. The duo learn to work together as they navigate old tensions, elusive suspects, and bizarre twists; and Diana devises a plan that could render the millions worthless.
Burke wrote the script with Katherine Thomson. Jane Doolan produces for Ireland’s Mammoth Films, with Michael Wrenn co-producing for Invisible Republic. Executive producers are Ester Harding, Michael Agar and Tine Klint; further cast will be announced in the coming weeks.
The film has received production funding from Screen Ireland and Screen Australia, with support from RTE, LevelK, Screen Queensland, Invest Gold Coast, Mind The Gap, Elysium Studio, Carnival Studio, and MDW Law. Eclipse Films will release the film in Ireland, with Bonsai Films distributing in Australia.
“This film marks my first exploration of post-conflict Northern Ireland through a primarily comedic lens,” said Burke, who previously directed 2017 historical crime drama Maze. “The aftermath of the Northern Bank robbery, with its many twists and unexpected turns, offers a perfect foundation for a dark, character-driven comedy.”
“At Mammoth Films, we are passionate about stories that resonate both locally and internationally, and Chasing Millions strikes that rare balance between gripping entertainment and thoughtful reflection,” said Doolan. “With the support of Screen Ireland and Screen Australia, and a talented creative team led by Stephen Burke, we believe Chasing Millions has strong potential to connect with global audiences, offering a unique, vibrant take on the heist genre.”
“This dynamic co-production with Ireland brings together two nations with deep storytelling traditions and showcases the talents of an exceptional creative team,” said Louise Gough, Screen Australia director of narrative content. ”Chasing Millions is a gripping, character-driven crime drama that not only entertains but speaks to the enduring complexities of justice and trust.”
“This is a remarkable Irish story based on true events - and is led by a fantastic creative team, which includes Irish director Stephen Burke, producer Jane Doolan, and our Australian production partners,” added Keith Potter, head of feature film at Screen Ireland.
Australian actress Madden’s credits include Paramount’s Dora and the Lost City of Gold, and Sony-Prime Video series The Wheel Of Time.
LevelK’s upcoming slate including Anke Blonde’s suspense drama Dust; animation Checkered Ninja 3; and Stephen Bradley’s comedy Fran The Man.
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