Film adaptation of the final novel from John McGahern hits cinemas

The final novel from the late Booker-shortlisted author John McGahern That They May Face The Rising Sun (Faber) has been adapted for film is now available to watch in cinemas.

Directed by Pat Collins, the story follows a year in the life of a rural community in Ireland in 1980s. Barry Ward stars alongside Anna Bederke in the titular roles with Lalor Roddy, Sean McGinley, Ruth McCabe and first-time actor Phillip Dolan in supporting roles. 

Ward and Bederke play Joe and Kate Ruttledge, respectively, who have returned from London to live and work among a small community in County Leitrim. "Now deeply embedded in their new life around the lake, this delicate and meditative drama unfolds over a course of a year through the rituals of work, play and the passing seasons within this enclosed world."

"That They May Face The Rising Sun" has been nominated for 11 Irish Film and Television Awards and clinched Best Irish Film at the Dublin Film Festival 2024.