New Ross-based photographer and filmmaker Shane O’Connor is making waves with his award-winning short film The Things We Do. The powerful 20-minute drama explores the devastating impact of gambling addiction on a family and has already premiered at the Galway Film Fleadh, winning Screen Wexford’s New Voices Award 2024. It is now set for its US premiere at the San Francisco Irish Film Festival.
Shot in New Ross, the film stars acclaimed actors including Moe Dunford, Tony O’Rourke, Eileen Walsh, and Aidan Thornton. O’Connor chose not to glamourise gambling on-screen, instead focusing on the fallout for families when addiction takes hold — unpaid bills, broken trust, and strained relationships. Speaking about the project, Shane explained that the story was inspired both by personal experiences and years of work documenting the Irish film industry. Supported by the Gambling Awareness Trust (GamblingCare.ie), the film is currently touring the festival circuit but will screen locally as part of Culture Night at St. Michael’s Theatre in New Ross. Looking ahead, O’Connor hopes to expand The Things We Do into a full-length feature and continue telling stories that shine a light on important social issues. Follow updates on Instagram: @thethingswedofilm
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