Introduction to The Lost Children of Tuam
Production is underway in Ireland for a film based on the true story of the mother and baby home in Tuam, County Galway. The film, produced by Element Pictures and Liam Neeson’s El Paso films, is being sold worldwide by France’s MK2.
The Story Behind the Film
The film tells the story of Catherine Corless, a real historical figure who discovered that up to 796 children had been buried in unmarked graves on the property of the mother and baby home. This devastating discovery led to a campaign for justice for the victims and survivors of the home. The excavation of the mass grave began in the summer of 2025.
Cast and Crew
The film stars Monica Dolan as Catherine Corless, with Andrew Bennett and Ian McElhinney co-starring. The script was written by Rebecca Lenkiewicz, who is known for her work on "The Salt Path" and "She Said". The film is based on an article by Dan Barry from The New York Times, for which Neeson’s El Paso opted for the rights.
Production and Distribution
The film is being produced by Chelsea Morgan Hoffmann, Ed Guiney, and Andrew Lowe for Element Pictures, as well as Jules Daly for Big Red Films and Neeson for El Paso films. Martina Niland is also producing for Port Pictures, with Next Pictures co-producing. The film is supported by BBC Film, Screen Ireland, Coimisiún Na Meán, and RTÉ.
Reaction from the Real-Life Catherine Corless
Catherine Corless has expressed her gratitude and honor that a film is being made about her story. She stated, "It is a great honor for me that a committed, professional, and top-class film crew is creating this film, which follows my tedious journey when I first discovered what really happened in Tuam, and the struggle with which I was confronted to bring this truth to so many obstacles."
Director’s Statement
Frank Berry, the director of the film, said, "We have to face this story, and we hope that this film will make a meaningful contribution to this process. We have a remarkable cast, from the amazing Monica Dolan, and a crew that approaches this topic with great care and sensitivity, approaching its deep importance in Ireland and beyond."
Statement from Liam Neeson
Liam Neeson added, "I feel so honored and proud that after eight years of preparation, we have the production with this profound history of the relentless persecution and commitment of a woman in uncovering the terrible truth of the events in Tuam that shocked our nation to the core and still have an impact in every aspect of our society."
The Importance of the Story
Rebecca Lenkiewicz noted, "The story of Tuam is so important and today so relevant in relation to children and who is worthy of care and who is not. It is a shocking and important survey in the past that takes over in our presence." The producers also stated that Catherine Corless has been an inspiration to many with her campaign for justice, and they are honored to bring this story to the big screen.
