The Liberties: Brenda

Oscar winning actress Brenda Fricker tells us why she loves living in the Liberties and talks of the value and strength of community spirit there.
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A series of 12 crafted short films, each focuses on a different character within Dublins Liberties community. It has been described as the documentary film equivalent of a portrait gallery.

The Liberties captures the character and unique humour of the people who live there. The documentary celebrates ordinary lives well lived in The Liberties - Tailor Eugene Fagan sews in a button for an 80 year old customer as they chat;  Meath Street butcher Declan Larkin carries quartered cattle into his shop at dawn; Flower Ladies, Phyllis Kavanagh and Mary Hand judge passers by on Meath St; Theyre not going to buy flowers, Theyre not going to buy flowers. Brenda Fricker polishes her Oscar at home, just off the Coombe and recounts the comment from friends; What are you doing living up there, Brenda, Youll be murdered, Youll be killed.

The film was shot, produced and directed by Shane Hogan and Tom Burke and edited by Tom Burke. Original music composition was by Gerry Horan. Audio post-production was by Kevin Breathnach at Avondale Studios. Titles were designed & produced by Lorcan Finnegan and Brunella Cocchiglia at Lovely Productions. The series of films was originally funded by the Arts Council under the Once-Off Project Award in 2008.