FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION

IFTA AWARDS 2024

LOLA

1941, sisters Thom and Mars have built a machine, LOLA, that can intercept radio and TV broadcasts from the future. This allows them to embrace their inner punk well before the movement came into existence, but with the Second World War escalating, the sisters decide to use the machine for good. While Thom becomes intoxicated by LOLA, Mars begins to realise the terrible consequences of its power.

Director: Andrew Legge
Writer: Andrew Legge, Angeli Macfarlane
Producers: Alan Maher, John Wallace

Filmmaker Q&A

Q: What was the genesis of this film, and how did it evolve over the course of development to production and completion?

• Andrew Legge (Director, Co-Writer): "I’ve always loved doing period film and folding in other genres, such as sci fi. I wanted to do a film that could work on a first time filmmakers budget whilst telling an ambitious story and I wanted to do something musical. The story of two mad female scientists, one armed with a Bolex, one a machine that could see the future, seemed a great starting point."

Q: What did you feel was the most fulfilling element of working on this film?

• Andrew: "The music was the most satisfactory element of the movie. Working with Neil Hannon. Playing with various musical genres to create an original soundtrack and some great pop songs."

Q: To what extent was your on-screen talent vital to the success of the film?

• Andrew: "We had two super leads and excellent supporting actors who injected a great energy into the story and brought to life the world of our two eccentric sisters."

Q: What’s the most interesting/inspiring piece of feedback you’ve received from people who have seen the film?

• Andrew: "I like that despite its flaws, people still appreciate the spirit of the movie."

Q: Can you speak to the growth in the Irish film industry in recent years and how it helped your film get off the ground? 

• Andrew: "Screen Ireland and the talent of the filmmaking team and crew made this movie possible."

Q: Tell us a little bit about your journey as a filmmaker to get to where you are now?

• Andrew: "I made a load of short films and then cobbled together this film."

Q: Why is it important to see your work represented at the IFTAs and to be acknowledged by your peers in the Irish film community?

• Andrew: "It’s very nice to get acknowledgement in one’s own country."