Just Johnny: Carrickfergus schoolgirl stars in award-winning short film

Darcey McNeeley (10) features with 10-year-old Daniel Willis in the film, which tells the story of a young boy who wants to wear a dress for his First Holy Communion.

The debut from Northern Ireland-based production company, Doyen Pictures, Just Johnny won a Gryphon Award at the prestigious Giffoni International Film Festival in Italy.

It was assessed by a jury in the Parental Experience category, and was announced as the winning film at the festival's closing awards ceremony on July 31.

Directed by Terry Loane, produced by Shauna Shivers McAtamney, and written by Gerard McCarthy, the 20-minute film stars Daniel, from Newry as Johnny with Darcey as his best friend Lucy.

It is not the first screen role for Oakfield Primary School pupil Darcey, who starred alongside veteran actors Christopher Eccleston and Paula Malcolmson in the 2018 BBC drama, Come Home.

For Just Johnny, Darcey was selected from an open call out across Northern Ireland. Producer, Shauna Shivers McAtamney said: "Carla Stronge Casting (Game of Thrones etc) called for young girls aged 8-10 and Darcey was brought in to tape with Mike and Hayley in Carla Stronge Casting HQ.

"The tapes were then shared with the creative team, and myself and the director then brought her in for a live audition with some other promising young actors. We then whittled it down to a short-list for call-backs and Darcey got the part.

"Although we had so many talented young people at the auditions, Darcey really stood out and we knew she would be the perfect Lucy - we were delighted to cast her in the role. Darcey and Daniel were super professional and great fun on set."

The filming process, meanwhile, was an "amazing experience" for Darcey. "The cast and crew were lovely, and me and Daniel became good friends as well," the Carrick schoolgirl said. "My favourite parts were chilling in the bar and the dance party."

Just Johnny also features well-known local actors Roisin Gallagher, Martin McCann, Tara Lynne O’Neill, Tracey Lynch, Sean Kearns, and Seamus O’Hara.

Filming took place in various locations across Belfast in March 2021 and the short film had its World Premiere at the Galway Film Fleadh on July 21.

Shauna Shivers McAtamney added: "The cast and crew of Just Johnny are absolutely delighted to be the recipients of such a significant award from an iconic festival like Giffoni. We were thrilled to be selected for the competition and to actually win was a very welcome surprise! This recognition means so much to everyone involved with the short film and highlights the tenacity of the exceptional talent, on and off camera, and everyone who championed this project from concept to completion."

At the Giffoni International Film Festival, programmer, Antonia Grimaldi described Just Johnny as a "wonderful film about how deep and strong parents’ love for their children can be, a film for every family."

Receiving such significant recognition from audiences in Italy was a great accomplishment for the Belfast film, according to writer, Gerard McCarthy. "We hope that viewers continue to connect with Johnny, Maria, and Dermot’s story across the world. The message is simple really; what makes an amazing mum and dad is knowing that they are always beside you."

Director, Terry Loane added: "Back in the spring, we were lucky enough to bring together a bunch of filmmakers - both newcomers and veterans - all working together as a team to bring Johnny and his journey to the screen.

"Winning this award is a wonderful result for the dedicated cast and crew who worked tirelessly to tell an important and timely story. I like to think that the film succeeds due to its positive message - something we all need in these gloomy and difficult times."

Just Johnny was made on location in Northern Ireland with the support of Northern Ireland Screen and the Arts Council Northern Ireland Creative Industries Seed Fund Programme.