A wake turns unsettling when three lifelong friends reunite, haunted by the sudden death of a classmate. What begins as a somber gathering quickly unravels into a thrilling, darkly comedic quest across the Irish countryside, forcing them to confront a secret they’ve guarded for decades.
The series follows Robyn, Dara, and Saoirse as they desperately piece together the truth about their friend’s demise, a truth inextricably linked to a shocking crime they covered up during their school days. Each mile traveled ignites memories, testing the bonds of their friendship and revealing the complicated lives they’ve built.
The actresses – Sinéad Keenan, Caoilfhionn Dunne, and Róisín Gallagher – all eagerly pursued roles in the series, drawn to the compelling story and the chance to collaborate with writer Lisa McGee, known for her hit show *Derry Girls*. Gallagher vividly recalls “torturing and begging” her agent for an audition, determined not to miss out.
McGee, the creative force behind the project, intentionally centered the narrative around female friendship. She’s always been fascinated by the intensity and endurance of these bonds, believing they often eclipse the focus on romantic relationships. This series beautifully portrays a friendship weathered by time, marked by playful bickering, unwavering support, and a shared history.
The enduring power of these formative connections resonated deeply with the cast. Keenan eloquently described how childhood friends “have known you at your best, at your worst, and when you are finding yourself.” They’ve witnessed every triumph and mistake, offering a unique and invaluable perspective on life’s journey.
Beyond the central mystery, the series is steeped in Irish culture and history. From a humorous cameo by Patrick Kielty to witty references to the IRA, ISIS, and even Catholicism, the show doesn’t shy away from the complexities of Irish identity. The cast proudly emphasized the authenticity of the dialogue and setting, reflecting the nuances of Irish life.
Gallagher, who previously felt pressure to suppress her natural accent, celebrated the opportunity to embrace her authentic voice. She described it as a “privilege” to perform without needing to alter her vernacular, a significant shift from the experiences she faced early in her career.
Dunne echoed this sentiment, noting a growing acceptance of Irish accents on screen. She’s observed a change in casting practices, with less emphasis on requiring actors to adopt standard English pronunciations. This embrace of authenticity allows for a richer and more genuine portrayal of Irish characters.
The inclusion of the Irish language throughout the series was also a point of pride for the cast. They recognized its importance in preserving cultural identity and expressed hope that it would contribute to greater understanding and appreciation of the language. Dunne playfully wished for a future where her name could be easily pronounced!
Set against the backdrop of Northern Ireland, the series subtly acknowledges the decades-long conflict known as The Troubles. While the references are often delivered with dark humor, they are essential to understanding the historical context and the experiences that have shaped the characters and their community.
Gallagher explained that this history is “woven into the fabric of the place,” influencing the way people speak, behave, and perceive the world. McGee’s skillful use of humor serves as a coping mechanism, offering a relatable and insightful reflection of the shared experiences of a generation.
The series concludes on a breathtaking cliffhanger, leaving audiences eager for more. While the future remains uncertain, the cast enthusiastically expressed their willingness to embark on another adventure, perhaps even venturing beyond Ireland’s shores.
