"A Simple Killing" Makes US Premiere at Newport Beach Film Festival

“A Simple Killing” will have its US premiere at the Newport Beach Film Festival, after making its world premiere at Raindance Film Festival in London earlier this year. The short is an ambitious horror film directed by Jason Branagan, written by Mark Conway, and produced by Emer Durcan of Western Front Studios and Mark de Carreau of Five Line Films. It was shot on location at Bellefield House and Gardens in Shinrone, county Offaly, and was awarded €10,000 by the Film Offaly Short Film Bursary 2023. It stars Daphne Cheung, Claire Gavin, and Aidan O'Callaghan. Brian Durcan handled cinematography, and Irish stunt coordination company Total Stunts oversaw the stunt work and armory.

Newport Beach Film Festival is celebrating its 25th year anniversary in 2024, showcasing over 300 films from around the world. The festival, celebrated for its focus on diverse storytelling and cinematic innovation, will bring A Simple Killing to an American audience, allowing viewers to experience Emer’s intense and suspenseful score, which elevates the film's gripping themes. It will screen as part of a selection of Irish films on the 19th October 2024.