A new comedy-horror film called Haunted Ulster Live, set in Belfast, is set to be released online this Halloween season. The film is a ‘found footage’ project by filmmakers Dominic O’Neill and Will McConnell, known for their previous success with the short film ‘Belfast 1912’. The story follows Northern Ireland TV veteran Gerry Burns and children’s presenter Michelle Kelly as they investigate poltergeist activity in a haunted house on Halloween night in 1998.
Director Dominic O’Neill shared that his inspiration for the film came from his interest in horror, Irish mythology, and stories about Ireland. He wanted to create a film that combined psychological horror with elements of Irish folklore, set in the backdrop of 1990s Belfast. The choice of setting in the 1990s allowed the filmmakers to explore the transition from analogue to digital TV and incorporate different presenting styles into the narrative.
The film premiered at FrightFest 2023 and received acclaim at various international genre film festivals. Dominic O’Neill mentioned that the film’s setting in Belfast during a period of conflict adds a layer of subtext to the story, making it more than just a typical found footage horror film. The director expressed his hope that the audience would be surprised by the direction the film takes and find it to be a unique addition to the genre.
Haunted Ulster Live will be available for streaming on UK and Ireland digital platforms starting October 14. The film promises to offer a blend of horror, folklore, and nostalgia for regional television, creating a chilling and entertaining viewing experience for audiences. Don’t miss out on this spooky film that brings together elements of Irish storytelling and supernatural themes against the backdrop of 1990s Belfast.
