Trojan Eddie Film Screening and Q&A

Stephen Rea is Trojan Eddie, a small time hustler who runs makeshift auctions out of the back of his Trojan van – hence his nickname. Richard Harris is John Power, a powerful, charismatic and dangerous Godfather of the local traveller community.

Trojan Eddie falls foul of the violent Traveller boss John Power when his sidekick (Stuart Townsend) steals Power’s young bride (Aislinn McGuckin) on their wedding night. Though more reductive in its representation of Traveller culture than would pass muster today, this slow-burning, character drama, written by Billy Roche, features star turns from Brendan Gleeson, Dolores Keane, Brid Brennan, Sean McGinley, Angeline Ball and Pecker Dunne. 

This highly atmospheric film is directed by the acclaimed auteur film director Gillies Mackinnon. (The Playboys, Hideous Kinky, Trial and Retribution, The Grass Arena …). Produced by Emma Burge’ Cinematography John De Boorman. 

First made in 1996, Trojan Eddie won the Best Film Award at the 1996 San Sebastián Film Festival.  

The ICC is thrilled to present the UK Premiere of this digital restoration from 35mm elements, which was created by the IFI Irish Film Archive for IFI’s Digital Restoration Project funded by Screen Ireland/Fís Éireann.

What the Press say about Trojan Eddie

“A powerful, beautifully observed and entirely unpatronising portrait of Traveller culture in Ireland, steeped in tradition, myth and codes of honour. With a superb cast and dialogue that rings true throughout, Trojan Eddie is an unforgettable piece of Irish cinema.” The Irish Times

“These two performances bring emotional weight to a film… Even so, Harris and Rea succeed in giving them an aching humanity.” – The New York Times, Stephen Holden.

“A spectrum of Irishness, and humanity, that never allows itself the laziness of cliché, nor the luxury of grandstanding – Rea… is in full-blooded form in Trojan Eddie”. – The Independent.