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A Savage Silence

A Savage Silence, based on the acclaimed novel by Rory Hafford, deals with relationship breakdown, betrayal, and ultimately finding a new way of being in the world. In addition, the film delves deep into themes of love, loss, and the transformative power of hope and resilience.

Director Darragh O’Rourke explains “I decided to make this film because I felt it was an intriguing and inspiring story that offers guidance on navigating the hardships that many people, regardless of age or background, have faced at some point in their lives. I believe it will prove inspirational for everyone who views it.”

A Savage Silence stars a variety of young, Irish midlands-based actors, some of whom have made their cinematic debut in this film. O’Rourke’s previous works have earned praise for their originality, unique approach to filmmaking and creative process. “This is by far our most ambitious project to date,” says O’Rourke. “I believe it will showcase the depth of hidden talent in the Irish creative scene, especially amongst a demographic that is often overlooked, misunderstood or ignored completely.”

The film features music from Rory Hafford's albums Savage Sounds and Remember, seamlessly integrating his original compositions to enhance the emotional depth of the narrative. Remember was also named Album Of The Week in September 2023 on RTÉ Lyric FM’s Marty In The Morning.

Rory Hafford is a Psychotherapist, Musician, Author and Martial Artist based in Fore, Co. Westmeath, and is a frequent contributor on Midlands 103, known for his segment on the Midlands Today show; Headaches and Heartaches.

The film was recorded at various locations within Counties Offaly and Westmeath, with additional scenes shot in St. Julian’s, Malta and Brittany, France.

  • Darragh O'Rourke
    Director
  • Darragh O'Rourke
    Writer
  • Maria Ekruor
    Producer
  • Darragh O'Rourke
    Producer
  • Darragh O'Rourke
    Key Cast
    "Jonathan Mills"
  • Leya Fox
    Key Cast
    "Alice Adler"
  • Callum Greene
    Key Cast
    "Patrick Fagan"
  • Sophie Murray
    Key Cast
    "Vera Mills"
  • Ciaran Kennedy
    Key Cast
    "Mark"
  • Robert Mills
    Key Cast
    "Doctor"
  • Maria Ekruor
    Key Cast
    "Mary the Medium"
  • Adam Walsh
    Key Cast
    "John Reckless"
  • Jerry O'Rourke
    Key Cast
    "Philip The One-Armed Man"
  • Evan Fitzsimons
    Key Cast
    "Frank"
  • Rory Hafford
    Key Cast
    "Narrator"
  • Rory Hafford
    Music
  • Martin Quinn
    Music
  • Callum Greene
    Quality Assurance
  • Darragh O'Rourke
    Editor
  • Leya Fox
    On-site Coordination
  • Project Type:
    Feature
  • Genres:
    Drama, Musical-Drama, Musical, Arthouse
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 30 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    October 15, 2025
  • Production Budget:
    600 EUR
  • Country of Origin:
    Ireland
  • Country of Filming:
    France, Ireland, Malta
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, Hi8
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Black & White
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Premiere
    Mullingar, Co. Westmeath
    Ireland
    October 24, 2025
    World Premiere
  • Tokyo Film & Screenplay Awards - December 2025
    Tokyo
    Japan
    Shortlisted
Distribution Information
  • D.S. O'Rourke Films Ireland
    Distributor
    Country: Worldwide
    Rights: All Rights
Director Biography - Darragh O'Rourke

Darragh O’Rourke (born 2004) is an Irish filmmaker, writer, director, editor, producer, and entrepreneur based in Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, Ireland. Working through his independent banner, D.S. O’Rourke Films Ireland, he develops and produces art-house, dramatic, and darkly comedic films with a strong emphasis on unique and innovative approaches to the filmmaking process, visual atmosphere, and the lesser seen and noticed things in life. His recent work includes A Savage Silence, an ultra–low-budget musical-drama adapted from a novel, noted for its intimate character focus and independent, midlands-based, youth-driven production approach. At 21, O’Rourke represents a new wave of emerging Irish filmmakers building narrative cinema from grassroots origins and personal voices.

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Director Statement

You know, it’s something truly special when a work of art is created. It’s a testament to the human nature of creativity, exploration, and collaboration.

But there’s something extra in the quality of speciality when a unique, distinctive, potentially groundbreaking artwork is made — a quality that can be understood, even if not described. Perhaps that is the definition of our collaborative effort: an arthouse, ultra-low-budget musical-drama adapted from a novel.

For us, this is a time to celebrate — to celebrate everyone’s efforts toward this cinematic production, and the creativity and spirit each person has brought to it. Without that, this film simply wouldn’t exist.

I remember over ten years ago, in May 2015, when I first learned to use video editing software. My earliest project was a simple slideshow set to music, but the encouragement I received stirred something within me. Over the years, through more projects, evolving technology, and countless setbacks — academic, social, and technical — I persevered.

This film, despite the challenges, is the product of that perseverance and creative collaboration. It is my hope that it opens doors for all of us in the arts and film sectors, and that it inspires others to follow their passions. My advice to anyone pursuing their craft is simple: be yourself, pursue what feels right, and never give up.

Looking back, I could never have imagined telling my 10-year-old self where this journey would lead. This film is not just a work of art — it is a reflection of all our efforts, a celebration of creativity, and a statement of the possibilities that come from collaboration and dedication.