c/o Cornerstone
A first look image has been released of Letitia Wright in Irish writer and director Frank Berry’s new drama Aisha, which recently wrapped production in Ireland. Cornerstone acquired international sales rights ahead of this month’s Cannes virtual market. Starring alongside Wright is The Crown’s Josh O’Connor. Letitia Wright Josh O’Connor Aisha
Aisha charts the experiences of a young Nigerian woman as she seeks international protection in Ireland. Caught in limbo for years in Ireland’s immigration system, Aisha Osagie (Wright) develops a friendship with former prisoner Conor Healy (O’Connor) who she meets at one of the accommodation centers. Aisha and Conor’s growing friendship soon looks to be short lived as Aisha’s future in Ireland comes under threat.
“Aisha is set in the world of Direct Provision in Ireland. While working with former and current international protection applicants over four years, a story emerged of a human connection in an inhumane system.” commented Frank Berry. “I am delighted that our project has attracted the attention of such amazing funding partners and the incredible talents of Letitia Wright and Josh O’Connor who act alongside many former and current international protection applicants. It’s been a very special experience making this film so far, and I look forward to all of us bringing Aisha to national and international audiences next year.”
A Subotica production, Aisha is produced by Tristan Orpen Lynch, Aoife O’Sullivan, Donna Eperon (the three of whom worked together on Berry’s award-winning feature film Michael Inside) and Park Pictures’ Sam Bisbee (Truffle Hunters). The film was developed and financed by Screen Ireland, BBC Film, RTE and the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland in association with Park Pictures, Wavelength and World of Ha Productions. Executive Producers are Rose Garnett for BBC Film, Hallee Adelman, Ivy Herman, Jenifer Westphal, Joe Plummer, Lance Acord, Jackie Kelman Bisbee, Wendy Neu, William Byerley and George Rush. Production leads include cinematographer Tom Comerford (Herself), editor Colin Campbell (The Hole in the Ground) and production designer Tamara Conboy (Once).
