A wake turns into something far more sinister. The death of a former classmate pulls three lifelong friends back together, but the grief quickly unravels into a chilling mystery that will take them on a desperate journey across Ireland. They soon realize their friend wasn’t who they thought she was, and they’re haunted by a secret they helped her bury years ago.
The actresses at the heart of this unfolding drama – Sinéad Keenan, Caoilfhionn Dunne, and Róisín Gallagher – didn’t hesitate when offered roles in the series. Gallagher vividly recalls “torturing and begging” her agent for an audition, determined to be part of a project she instinctively knew was special. Keenan, already familiar with the show’s creator, Lisa McGee, simply responded with an enthusiastic “Yes, send the script!”
McGee, the acclaimed writer behind *Derry Girls*, intentionally set out to explore the complexities of female friendship. She’s always been fascinated by the bonds between women, believing they often receive less attention than romantic relationships. This series isn’t just a thriller; it’s a raw and honest portrayal of a friendship tested by time, distance, and a shared, dark past.
The women describe the series as an ode to the enduring power of platonic love – those rare friendships forged in youth that withstand the trials of adulthood. Keenan reflects on the unique intimacy of knowing someone since childhood, witnessing their triumphs and failures, and sharing in their most vulnerable moments. These are the friendships worth fighting for, the ones that truly shape who we become.
Ireland itself is a character in the story, woven into the narrative with a vibrant authenticity. From witty references to *The Late Late Show* to playful debates about political affiliations, the series is unapologetically Irish. The actresses celebrate this, emphasizing the importance of capturing the nuances of language, history, and culture.
Gallagher, who previously felt pressure to suppress her natural accent, found it profoundly liberating to perform in her own voice. She describes it as a “privilege” to be part of a production that embraces and celebrates Irish vernacular. This shift reflects a broader change in the industry, where Irish accents are increasingly recognized and valued.
Dunne echoes this sentiment, noting a marked difference in the acceptance of Irish accents on screen compared to earlier in her career. The more Irish voices are heard, the more normalized they become, reducing the need for explanation or translation. The inclusion of the Irish language throughout the series is also a source of pride for the cast.
The series doesn’t shy away from the complexities of Northern Ireland’s history, particularly the decades-long conflict known as The Troubles. While these references are often delivered with dark humor, they are essential to understanding the characters and the world they inhabit. Gallagher emphasizes that this history is “woven into the fabric of the place” and influences the way people think, behave, and tell stories.
McGee’s storytelling, much like in *Derry Girls*, uses humor as a coping mechanism, offering a nuanced and insightful reflection of a challenging past. It’s a way to explore difficult truths without being preachy or didactic, allowing the audience to connect with the characters on a deeper level.
The journey isn’t over. The first season concludes on a breathtaking cliffhanger, leaving viewers desperate for more. While the actresses remain tight-lipped about future storylines, they all agree on one thing: they’re ready for whatever adventure Lisa McGee has in store, even if it means traveling to far-flung corners of the globe.
*How to Get to Heaven from Belfast* is a captivating blend of mystery, suspense, and heartfelt emotion, now available for viewing.
