'Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical'

Source: Sony Pictures Releasing International

‘Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical’

Alisha Weir, the young Irish lead of Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical, is set to star in Brian Durnin’s feature directorial debut Spilt Milk that will shoot in Ireland this summer.

Set in Dublin in 1984, Split Milk follows an 11 year-old boy (still to be cast), who dreams of becoming a great detective like his TV hero Kojak. He sets up a private investigation enterprise with his best friend, played by Weir, but the disappearance of his older brother sets them off down a dark path.

The film will also star Danielle Galligan, whose credits include Shadow And Bone, and Laurence O’Fuarain, who has appeared in The Witcher: Blood Origin.

The screenplay is by Cara Loftus and was selected for the inaugural new writing scheme with Screen Ireland in 2019. It will be the first feature from this scheme to go into production. 

Developed and produced with the support of Screen Ireland, Spilt Milk is the first feature produced by Laura McNicholas through her company 925 Productions, and Scottish outfit MTP.

Founded by Simon Mallinson, MTP’s projects include Jack Gavin’s Hector starring Peter Mullan, and Freehold, directed by Dominic Bridges. 925 and MTP will produce in association with established Irish producers Vico Films, best known for The Young Offenders, and Avar Capital.

Durnin’s background is in commercials and he has directed over 200 commercials for international brands.