World premiere of 'Wildfire' at TIFF prompts filmmakers to release behind the scenes footage

Last night, Wildfire had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. As a result, the filmmakers and team behind the film, including writer/director Cathy Brady, have released a Behind the Scenes look at how the film came together.

The three minute 'making of' video touches on the tragic loss of lead actress Nika McGuigan in 2019, and discusses the journey and creative collaboration behind the lead performances.

With contributions from her collaborators in co-star Nora Jane Noone, writer/director Cathy Brady and interviews with Nika herself, 'Wildfire: the Story of a Film' is a moving tribute to a friend and artist.

Wildfire is in Official Selection for the reduced line-up at the Toronto International Film Festival this year. It premiered in the festival’s Discovery strand, which represents directors to watch and the future of world cinema.

Reviews for the film so far have highlighted the ‘intense, passionate drama’ (Irish Times) and ‘incendiary turns from Noone and McGuigan’ (Screen International). It marks Cathy Brady’s feature debut, and she has been branded as ‘a talent to watch’. It's another successful turn for Irish film at the Toronto International Film Festival this year, wtih Cartoon Saloon's animated feature Wolfwalkers receiving critical acclaim after its premiere last weekend. Wildfire will continue its festival circuit in October, premiering in the UK at the London Film Festival.

Wildfire stars Nora Jane-Noone and Nika McGuigan as Lauren and Kelly, two sisters whose mother’s mysterious death has torn them apart. Kelly, keen to escape their insular town, drifted away and disappeared a year ago. When she finally returns, the intense bond between the sisters is reignited. United, they unearth their mother’s past, but the truth has devastating consequences.

Wildfire is produced by Charles Steel for Cowboy Films, Carlo Cresta-Dina for Tempesta Film and David Collins for Samson Films. Financiers for the film include the British Film Institute (BFI), Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, Film4 and Northern Ireland Screen, in association with Great Point Media, Sulcata Productions and Wellcome.

The film is dedicated to the memory of Nika McGuigan. Watch 'Wildfire: the Story of A Film' below.

Wildfire - Making Of from Film Constellation on Vimeo.